NETHERLANDS — Royal Philips took center stage at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) in Chicago, introducing a trio of cutting-edge magnetic resonance (MR) Smart Fit coils.

The unveiled solutions, namely the Smart Fit Torso Cardiac 1.5T coil, Smart Fit 1.5T shoulder coil, and Smart Fit Knee 1.5T coil, mark significant strides in advancing radiological imaging technology.

Radiofrequency (RF) coils, specialized devices pivotal in emitting and receiving radiofrequency signals, lie at the heart of these innovative solutions.

Designed for the detailed imaging of internal body structures, these Smart Fit coils amplify the capabilities of MR technology.

The Smart Fit Torso Cardiac 1.5T coil emerges as a breakthrough, enabling healthcare professionals to visualize internal structures of the head, body, or extremities with exceptional flexibility, bending over 90°.

Philips asserts that the Smart Fit 1.5T shoulder coil stands out by reducing setup time by 10% compared to the 1.5T MSK 16 (dual coil setup).

While the Smart Fit Knee 1.5T coil awaits 510(K) approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the torso cardiac and shoulder coils received their regulatory nod on September 1, 2023.

Ruud Zwerink, Philips MR general manager, emphasized the integral role of these Smart Fit coils within patient-centric MR workflows.

Integrated with advanced AI-powered software, these coils not only reduce scanning time but also streamline the exam process, enhancing both efficiency and the overall patient experience.

The RSNA event witnessed a cascade of announcements from Philips, reinforcing its commitment to healthcare innovation.

Among the highlights were AI-enabled solutions for healthcare providers, including the EPIQ Elite 10.0 and Philips Affiniti ultrasound systems.

These systems boast a single-user interface integrated with shared transducers and automated tools, promising to reduce complexity and enhance the user experience.

Competing on the RSNA stage, GE Healthcare showcased its AI technology, featuring the SIGNA Champion, a 1.5T scanner with AI-supported workflows.

Technologies like Sonic DL, touted to reduce scan times by 50%, and the MyBreastAI suite for breast cancer detection and workflows underscore GE Healthcare’s commitment to AI integration.

A GlobalData report predicts the global revenue for AI platforms to surge to US$908.7 billion by 2030, signifying the growing significance of AI in the healthcare sector.

Despite challenges related to the recall of positive airway pressure devices, Philips reported better-than-expected earnings for Q3 FY 2023.

The company recorded adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, and amortization (EBITA) of €457 million (US$501 million).

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