MALVERN, Pa. & WINNIPEG, Manitoba, Apr 04, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Siemens Medical Solutions and IMRIS, Inc. today announced the signing of a global original equipment manufacturer (OEM) agreement. Siemens MAGNETOM Espree(TM) and MAGNETOM Symphony(R) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems will be incorporated into IMRIS' ceiling-mounted surgical imaging systems, used in neurosurgical, spinal and soft tissue procedures.

iMotion, IMRIS' ceiling-mounted MRI, can be moved between the diagnostic imaging area and operating room by a track system, ensuring advanced medical technology in multiple locations. In addition, the combination of Siemens' diagnostic technology and IMRIS' surgical innovations enable surgeons to remove diseased tissue more efficiently, reduce damage to healthy tissue, and decrease visits to the operating room (OR) for subsequent surgeries. Ultimately, this helps to improve patient outcomes and provides a strong financial platform for medical facilities.


"The challenge of having an MRI system solely in the OR is that it can be costly and may take medical facilities years to recoup their investment," said David Graves, president, IMRIS. "By offering a system that can be used in the OR as well as the diagnostic imaging department, a facility can realize a significantly improved return on investment. iMotion fills this need, providing advanced MRI technology in either department at any time in minutes."

The MAGNETOM Espree with Tim(R) (Total imaging matrix) technology is the world's only 70 cm Open Bore 1.5 Tesla (1.5T) MRI system. Offering more room than a traditional MRI while being only 1.25 meters in length, it is one of the leading systems to adequately address issues related to obesity, claustrophobia, elderly and pediatric patients, while capturing high-field 1.5T quality diagnostic images. The MAGNETOM Symphony 1.5T MRI system, available with Tim technology, encompasses some of the most advanced technologies and programs on the market today.

"Incorporating Siemens' MRI technology with IMRIS' iMotion will provide customers with a new way of integrating diagnostic imaging into their facility's infrastructure," said Nancy Gillen, vice president, MRI Division, Siemens Medical Solutions. "Movable MRI allows doctors and patients access to the technology where and when it is most needed, improving patient care, workflow and financial outcomes. Medical facilities are no longer limited by the notion of only one department benefiting from a MRI system."

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