IMRIS, Deerfield Imaging, a developer of intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging systems, has made significant advancements in its technical capabilities and market penetration lately. Recent moves include:
- FDA clearance of an advanced neurosurgical theatre that incorporates its traveling magnet design.
- Acquisition of Superconducting Systems, Inc. (SSI) which develops cryogen-free superconducting magnets for medical and research applications.
- Relocation to a new facility custom-built with surgical suite labs for developing its unique technology.
IMRIS reported in February that it has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration for the new InVision 1.5 Surgical Theatre, a ceiling-mounted intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging system specifically designed for imaging during surgical procedures in a multi-room operating suite. The 1.5 Tesla system provides high quality imaging for neurosurgical applications. The ceiling-mounted apparatus uniquely travels between the diagnostic room and adjacent operating rooms, bringing the magnet directly to the patient.
A key component of the system is the company’s IMRIS Magnet Mover which consists of a set of ceiling-mounted rails which enable the magnet to move between rooms of the hybrid operating suite. Electric motors provide the linear and rotational movements controlled by the operator using a control pad or a hand-held pendant, which are affixed to the side of the magnet. It also includes the ability to keep the magnet connected to power, gradient amplifiers, chilled water and data.
“We’re excited to receive regulatory clearance for commercialization of our InVision 1.5 Surgical Theatre,” said IMRIS CEO Marc Buntaine. “IMRIS continues to innovate and provide intraoperative imaging solutions that support the clinical needs of hospitals and doctors that treat neurological disorders. This new InVision system further expands and complements the IMRIS product portfolio by offering the latest innovations in 1.5T MRI.”
IMRIS custom designs innovative intraoperative MRI systems specifically for imaging during neurosurgical procedures. The theatres help deliver timely information to clinicians, providing real-time visualization to assist in decision-making and enhance precision in treatment. The company makes a range of surgical theatre configurations which incorporate various Siemens MRI scanners ranging from 1.5T to 3T MAGNETOM models.
The acquisition of Superconducting Systems, Inc. (SSI) of Billerica, Massachusetts came in 2022. SSI designs and develops cryogen-free (liquid helium free) superconducting magnets for medical and research applications. With funding by the U.S. National Institute of Health, SSI has been collaborating with research divisions of major Boston-area scientific institutions to demonstrate the viability and benefits of its cryogen-free systems. SSI magnets are used in commercial MRI systems throughout the world.
“We are excited to become part of IMRIS and help develop innovative cryogen-free magnets that can power next generation point-of-care MRI systems,” said SSI CEO Dr. Shahin Pourrahimi at the time. “IMRIS provides development and commercialization expertise that will enable SSI magnets to offer clinical value in a number of medical applications where mid-field intra-procedural MRI can have significant impact on patient outcomes.”
In October 2023, IMRIS relocated its headquarters to a new, modern facility in Chaska, Minnesota that includes a customized buildout housing multiple IMRIS surgical imaging suite labs. The fully functional multi-room MRI theatres enable technology development, system validation and training resources for new and existing IMRIS technologies.
IMRIS also designs and manufactures proprietary head fixation devices, imaging coils and operating room tables. Its products are sold globally to clinical centers in the neurosurgical, spinal, cardiovascular and orthopedic markets. For more info, see www.imris.com.
