Quiet SuiteImaging is to be seen, not heard.
Advanced noise reduction technologies are present on all MAGNETOM® scanners. Nevertheless, we have continuously strived to develop technologies that will further lower noise without compromising imaging efficiency and quality. With Quiet Suite1, we have addressed the root source – sharp gradient switches – to take noise reduction to a new level. Quiet Suite includes QuietX sequences and the inaudible PETRA as well as optimized protocols for neurological and orthopedic examinations. Experience a broad range of benefits:
- Complete, quiet exams for neurology and orthopedics
- No compromises in image quality
- Minimum of 70% reduction in sound pressure2
Hear the difference. Compare the outcomes.
Example of a complete neurological examination:
Clinical Examples
Complete, quiet exams for neurology and orthopedics
With Quiet Suite1 you can conduct complete, quiet exams for neurology and orthopedics. The perceived noise reduction of more than 70% starts at the very first step of the examination.2 The noise reduction is kept throughout the whole examination process. It reduces the need for sedation for certain groups of patients such as children and elderly people, leading to higher patient satisfaction. And at no expense of image quality.
Inaudible imaging with PETRA
Quiet Suite includes PETRA, a sequence for 3D T1 imaging. For neurological imaging, PETRA can barely be heard over ambient background noise. With a Tx/Rx coil, PETRA is inaudible over background noise.
Compare conventional examinations with Quiet Suite:
3D PETRA
"The realization of quiet MRI is truly exciting. It will improve clinical care for many pediatric, dementia and psychiatric patients, while providing a more comfortable experience for all patients. For the many patients scanned at our hospital, T1-weighted PETRA provided the same diagnostic information as MPRAGE. PETRA even provided diagnostic advantages in some cases; for example, paranasal sinuses could be imaged without susceptibility related Distortion."3
Dr. Masahiro Ida,
Tokyo Metropolitan Ebara Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
Complete, quiet neurological examinations
Complete, clinical examinations with QuietX TSE, SE and GRE for T1, T2 and DarkFluid contrasts and QuietX SWI.
Compare conventional examinations with Quiet Suite:
Localizer
T2 TSE
T2 DarkFluid
SWI
T1 FLASH 3D
Complete, quiet orthopedic examinations
Complete, clinical examinations with QuietX TSE, SE and GRE for T1, T2 and DarkFluid contrasts.
Compare conventional examinations with Quiet Suite:
Knee T1 TSE
Knee T2 TSE
Shoulder T1 DarkFluid
Shoulder T2 TSE
“The PETRA sequence generates close to no acoustic noise and the QuietX SWI 20 dB less noise than conventional SWI. The quiet sequences are gentle for children and have been very useful in imaging pediatric patients. They provide a more comfortable scanning environment without compromising image quality.”3
Dr. Noriko Aida,
Kanagawa Children’s Med Center, Kanagawa, Japan
How it works
Address the cause, not the effects.
The main source of MRI acoustic noise is the gradient coils. Rapid switching of the gradients generates significant mechanical vibrations, akin to a jackhammer or a loudspeaker at a rock concert. To effectively reduce noise beyond what can be achieved by conventional methods (e.g., gradient insulation, force compensation), the cause of the noise – sharp gradient switching – must be addressed directly. The challenge lies in developing a solution that is effective and intelligent, without compromising image quality or scan time.
Today, QuietX1 has been realized for TSE, SE and GRE sequences. QuietX works to provide the best possible gradient trajectory through intelligent summation of gradients and reduction of slew rates, while keeping timing parameters within the same range. The results are significant reductions of acoustic noise and smoother, more pleasant sounds without significant impact on image quality and scan time.
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1
May not be commercially available in countries outside the U.S., future availability cannot be guaranteed.
2
Data on file. The sound example is for demonstration purposes only. The ratio between conventional and Quiet Suite MRI sound is accurately represented: however, actual sounds may differ in volume and quality. Reduction in sound pressure, measurements made on MAGNETOM Skyra, not considering ear plugs.
3
The statements by Siemens Healthineers' customers described herein are based on results that were achieved in the customer's unique setting. Since there is no "typical" hospital and many variables exist (e.g., hospital size, case mix, level of IT adoption) there can be no guarantee that other customers will achieve the same results.