Antje Hellwich

@antjehellwich

Editor-in-Chief MAGNETOM Flash Internet editor MAGNETOM World, the Siemens Healthineers peer-to-peer community for MRI users.

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Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jul 12

Establishing Standard #MRI Protocols for Brain and Spine Evaluation in Small Animals by Dr. Fred Wininger, VMD, MS, DACVIM (The Animal Neurology Center, St. Louis, USA). www.magnetomworld.siemens-healthineers.com/hot-topics/c... #VetMed #VetSky #VetMedSky #NeuroSky #IVRA #IVRA2026

Standardized MRI protocols are essential not only for achieving high image quality and diagnostic accuracy, but also for ensuring efficiency, safety, and reproducibility across a diverse and challenging patient population.

Unlike human radiology, veterinary imaging must accommodate multiple species, a wide range of sizes, and varied pathologies — all while operating under the constraints of anesthesia, cost, and staffing.

By designing thoughtful, size-based, and anatomically grounded protocols that anticipate these demands, veterinary teams can maximize the utility of MRI as a diagnostic tool.

The figure shows the standard spinal protocol in dogs.
The imaging volume encompassed either the C1–T2 or T2–S1 spinal segments. Sagittal T2W and dorsal T2W STIR sequences were acquired for planning the region of interest (ROI), followed by transverse T2W images through the ROI.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jul 11

A different perspective on this summer’s sporting events ⚽ 🎾🚴 After sharing an #MRI of a soccer player, tomorrow's #Wimbledon final is the perfect occasion for an MRI of a tennis player. And with the Tour de France in full swing, an MRI of a cyclist is coming up... #RadSky #SiemensHealthineers

These are real MRI acquisitions, not AI-generated images. Many thanks to my colleague Heike Weh (Siemens Healthineers, Erlangen, Germany), whose expertise made these remarkable images possible.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jul 9

The Evolving Role of Cardiovascular #MRI in Sports Cardiology: From Athletic Adaptation to Cardiac Pathology By Prof Andreas Schuster, et al. (FORUM Medizin, Rosdorf, Germany). marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/1411a2910b1f... #CardioSky #RadSky #CMR #SportsCMR @banksgaia.bsky.social

Sports cardiologists are frequently confronted with a fundamental challenge: distinguishing physiological adaptations of the athlete’s heart from pathological cardiovascular abnormalities. In this context, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) has evolved into an indispensable tool in modern sports cardiology. Its unique ability to characterize myocardial structure, function, tissue composition, fibrosis, and inflammation, and the possibility of anatomical evaluation of the coronary arteries make CMR indispensable for the assessment of athletes with suspected cardiovascular disease.

Whether evaluating inflammatory heart disease, differentiating athlete’s heart from cardiomyopathy, assessing arrhythmic risk, monitoring aortic adaptation, or characterizing myocardial scar in coronary disease, CMR provides information that directly influences clinical decision-making. As sports cardiology increasingly embraces individualized care and shared decision-making, CMR serves not merely as a diagnostic modality but as a central component of athlete-centered cardiovascular risk assessment. Its ability to combine anatomical, functional, and tissue-specific information makes it the cornerstone imaging technique for modern sports cardiology.

The figure shows serial CMR findings in an elite handball player with physiological exercise-induced cardiac remodeling.
The baseline CMR study (left column, 2020) and follow-up CMR study (middle and right columns, 2025) demonstrate persistent left ventricular enlargement.
End-diastolic four-chamber cine images (left and middle columns) show stable chamber dilatation without focal structural abnormalities. Corresponding LGE images demonstrate no focal myocardial fibrosis. Native T1 mapping (top right) and T2 mapping (bottom right) at follow-up show normal tissue characteristics without evidence of diffuse myocardial fibrosis or myocardial edema, consistent with athlete’s heart.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jul 8

Dixon FLAIR Outperforms Fat-Suppressed FLAIR Image Quality in Brain #MRI by Wenchang Zhang, MD, et al. (The Second Hospital of Longyan, Fujian, China). Read the article: marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/4a576e22d8fb... #NeuroSky #MedPhys #RadSky 📌 Please note that Dixon FLAIR is WIP.

Fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) is an essential sequence in brain MRI. By suppressing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and free water signals, FLAIR improves the contrast between lesions and brain parenchyma, thereby improving the detection of pathologies adjacent to CSF spaces, such as cerebral infarction, abscess, inflammatory demyelinating diseases, and tumors.

However, conventional FLAIR without fat suppression suffers from high fat signal and chemical shift artifacts, which may reduce gray-white matter contrast and mask lesions involving the skull or intracranial structures. Frequency selective fat suppressed FLAIR (FS FLAIR) has been widely adopted to overcome these limitations.
Unfortunately, FS FLAIR is highly sensitive to B0 and B1 inhomogeneities, which are exacerbated by tissue susceptibility differences, geometric distortion, and the presence of metal dental implants. As a result, FS FLAIR often fails to provide uniform fat suppression, leading to degraded image quality, signal distortion, and reduced diagnostic confidence — particularly in patients with fixed metal dentures.

The authors integrated the Dixon technique with FLAIR (Dixon FLAIR). The Dixon method exploits the chemical shift difference between water and fat, using dual echo acquisition and advanced reconstruction algorithms. It is inherently less sensitive to B0/B1 inhomogeneities and local susceptibility variations, offering robust and uniform fat suppression even in challenging anatomical regions without increasing scan time.
This article presents three cases demonstrating the differences in fat-suppression quality between FS-FLAIR and Dixon-FLAIR in brain MRI and the resulting impact on lesion visualization.

📌 Please note that Dixon FLAIR is Work in progress. The application is currently under development and is not for sale in the U.S. and in other countries. Its future availability cannot be ensured.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jun 30

Dedicated dental #MRI enables direct visualization of soft tissues, nerves, and the pulp — without ionizing radiation. Applications include TMJ, endodontics, periodontics, or surgical planning. marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/5a181218e44a... #DentalMRI #OralRadiology #ddMRI #RadSky

Clinical applications of dental dedicated MRI span multiple domains of oral and maxillofacial medicine.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders:
MRI is the only non-invasive modality that directly visualizes the articular disc, showing its position, shape, and integrity. Differentiating between muscular dysfunction, disc displacement with or without reduction, and degenerative joint disease is clinically decisive and fundamentally influences the therapeutic approach.

Endodontics:
MRI enables direct visualization of the pulp. Current vitality tests — thermal or electrical — provide indirect, sometimes ambiguous information. MRI can display inflammatory changes around the apex, enable assessments of vascularization, and support the detection of periapical pathology at early stages before substantial bone loss has occurred.

Periodontics:
MRI allows visualization of soft tissue inflammation and ligament integrity. Active periodontitis can show characteristic edema and hyperemia on MRI before radiographically detectable bone loss occurs. The extent of soft tissue attachment loss can be assessed non-invasively, complementing clinical probing.

Surgical planning:
MRI enhances surgical planning through detailed nerve visualization. The inferior alveolar nerve, mental nerve, and lingual nerve can be traced along their courses. This allows more precise planning of implant placement, wisdom tooth extractions, and orthognathic procedures, particularly in cases where the nerve course is unusually close to the planned surgical site or where previous interventions have altered normal anatomy.

Pediatric dentistry:
Here the absence of ionizing radiation is particularly relevant. Repeated MRI in growing children — to monitor dental development, assess impacted teeth, or follow trauma over time — carries no cumulative radiation burden.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jun 28

Phase-Resolved Functional Lung Protocols: The #PREFUL research team shares their #MRI protocols for 1.5T, 3T, and 0.55T MAGNETOM systems. www.magnetomworld.siemens-healthineers.com/clinical-cor... #RadSky #LungMRI #Pediatrics #FunctionalImaging #LungHealth

Chronic pulmonary diseases (CPD) represent a major global health burden and are the leading cause of death among lung diseases. Each year, more than 55 million new cases are diagnosed worldwide, and approximately 10% of patients affected by CPDs are children.

CPDs comprise a spectrum of diseases that require continuous surveillance. Assessing lung function, particularly perfusion (blood flow) and ventilation (airflow), is essential. Nuclear medicine is currently considered the gold standard for functional lung imaging.
However, when repeated follow-up imaging is required, radiation exposure has to be taken into account, especially for vulnerable patient groups such as children.

LungMaps is a proton MRI-based application that provides functional lung information without the need for tracers, contrast agents, or ionizing radiation. It is based on the PREFUL method, which has been clinically evaluated across a wide range of patient populations. Although LungMaps is a post-processing application, it relies on a 2D MRI acquisition protocol with sufficient temporal resolution to capture both respiratory- and cardiac-based signal variations in the lungs.

Shout-out to Andreas Voskrebenzev, Ph.D.; Filip Klimeš, Ph.D.; and Jens Vogel-Claussen, M.D. (Department of Radiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany; Department for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Hannover Medical School, Germany) for sharing their protocols.

Download the protocols for:
-- 0.55T MAGNETOM Free (syngo MR XA80)
-- 1.5T MAGNETOM Sola (syngo MR XA61)
-- 3T MAGNETOM Vida (syngo MR XA60)

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jun 23

Accelerate imaging and improve image quality with Boost Gradient Mode by Takashi Torigoe (Application Specialist, Siemens Healthineers, Tokyo, Japan). Lern more: marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/17e7faea5ecd... #RadSky #MedPhys #MRI #ImageQuality @tomhilbertmri.bsky.social

Effective use of gradient magnetic fields plays an important role in achieving high image quality. Boost Gradient Mode is a unique feature that enables MRI systems to use the maximum gradient strength, allowing further optimization of imaging parameters. First introduced on the 0.55T MAGNETOM Free. Platform, it is now also available on the 1.5T MAGNETOM Flow. Platform.
One of the key advantages of Boost Gradient Mode is the ability to shorten echo spacing when optimizing imaging parameters. While shorter echo spacing does not inherently shorten acquisition time, it does provide additional benefits that include improved signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and reduced blurring and banding artifacts. The clinical cases presented in this article demonstrate the practical impact of Boost Gradient Mode across multiple anatomical regions.
This article highlights the feasibility and clinical usefulness of Boost Gradient Mode. By making effective use of maximum gradient performance, it helps to accelerate imaging and improve image quality. Although higher gradient performance increases the likelihood of reaching dB/dt limits, integrated tools such as Boost Assistant provide robust mitigation of these risks.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jun 21

New pediatric #MRI protocols by Mike Kean, FISMRT (Royal Children's) are now available. Protocols include: - Brain - C-spine trauma, scoliosis, discitis, long bone infection - Extremity tumors - Liver Download the 1.5T & 3T .exar1 files: www.magnetomworld.siemens-healthineers.com/clinical-cor...

New pediatric MRI protocols with Deep Resolve are now available, shared by Michael Kean, FISMRT, Chief MR Technologist Children’s MRI and PET Centre, Murdoch Children's Research Institute / Honorary Senior Research Fellow, Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne The Royal Children’s Hospital.

Included are protocols for:
- Brain (under 6 months, headache, developmental disorders, multiple sclerosis, temporal lobe epilepsy, intracranial infection, and stroke)
- Cervical spine trauma
- Spine (scoliosis and discitis)
- Long bone infection
- Extremity tumor
- Liver

Some of the protocols have been optimized for quieter scanning using Quiet Mode.

The protocols follow the recommendations published by:
Ferraciolli SF, et al. International standardization of pediatric magnetic resonance imaging protocols: creation of the World Federation of Pediatric Imaging MR Protocols Committee. Pediatr Radiol. 2025;55(3):375–383. doi: 10.1007/s00247-024-06154-6.

Download the .exar1 files for:
- 1.5T MAGNETOM Sola (syngo MR XA61)
- 3T MAGNETOM systems (syngo MR XA60)

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jun 20

With the ⚽ World Cup capturing global attention, here's a look beneath the surface. Exploare & download a series of striking sports #MRI images featuring a cyclist, gymnast, sprinter, and tennis player. 🔗 www.magnetomworld.siemens-healthineers.com/magnetom-mat... #RadSky #WorldCup #FIFAWC2026

This MRI of a soccer player was acquired by my colleague Heike Weh.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jun 18

CATCH-220: Delivering Comprehensive Brain #MRI in Under 4 Minutes Using Deep Learning Reconstruction at 1.5T by Dr Cocozza, et al. (Naples University Hospital Federico II, Italy). 📄 marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/6b138aab257e... #NeuroSky #RadSky #Stroke #AlzheimersDisease #BrainMRI

CATCH-220 is a deep learning-enhanced, clinically implementable ultrafast MRI protocol that enables comprehensive whole-brain imaging in less than 220 seconds.
By combining multiple image contrasts, including perfusion, within a single rapid acquisition, the protocol offers a flexible and scalable solution for a wide range of neuroradiological applications.

Its compatibility with standard 1.5T MRI systems and reliance on commercially available technology support its integration into routine clinical workflows, particularly in time-critical settings and for patients requiring repeated examinations.

Of course, some limitations should be acknowledged. The protocol does not include a dedicated angiographic sequence, such as time-of-flight (TOF) MR angiography, which may limit its immediate applicability in certain vascular contexts. Although susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) can provide indirect vascular information (e.g., the susceptibility vessel sign), it cannot fully replace vascular imaging yet.

Beyond acute stroke, the potential applications of CATCH-220 extend to other clinical scenarios. In longitudinal imaging, such as ARIA monitoring in patients receiving anti-amyloid therapies, shorter scan times may improve adherence and workflow efficiency. Similarly, in pediatric and non-cooperative populations, ultrafast protocols can reduce motion artifacts and minimize the need for sedation.

Shout-out and thank you to all co-authors!

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jun 16

Dental-dedicated #MRI is opening new possibilities for radiation-free dentomaxillofacial imaging. The @au.dk experience highlights sequence optimization, workflow optimization & clinical applications. marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/740e6b3fc513... #DentalMRI #ddMRI #DentalRadiology

The Journey of Dental‑Dedicated MRI at a School of Dentistry: The Aarhus Experience by Dr. Jennifer Christensen and Dr. Rubens Spin-Neto (Department of Dentistry and Oral Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark).

Dental‑dedicated magnetic resonance imaging (ddMRI) has recently emerged as a promising radiation‑free imaging modality for dentomaxillofacial diagnostics.
By combining a lower‑field MRI system, a dedicated radiofrequency coil, and optimized pulse sequences, ddMRI enables simultaneous visualization of dental structures, bone, soft tissues, and inflammatory processes.

Aarhus University was among the first institutions worldwide to implement and systematically investigate this technology within its school of dentistry. Through a series of experimental ex vivo and clinical studies, the researchers explored sequence optimization, workflow integration, and diagnostic feasibility across multiple dental disciplines.
This article summarizes the first years of ddMRI implementation in Aarhus, highlighting technological developments, patient workflow, sequence optimization, and emerging clinical applications. The Aarhus experience illustrates both the potential and current limitations of ddMRI and outlines key research that will be necessary for integrating MRI into routine dentomaxillofacial imaging.

The figure shows Proton‑density‑weighted images of impacted inferior third molars.
The red arrow shows the submandibular ganglion and its connection to the lingual nerve; the green arrows show the mandibular canal.
(Left, axial view; Middle, sagittal view; Right, coronal view)

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jun 14

Imaging Titanium and Carbon Fiber Spinal Implants at 0.55T, 1.5T, and 3T #MRI: A Phantom Experiment by Xin Miao, Ph.D. et al. 🔗Read more: marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/669814662252... #MRinRT #OncoSky #RadSky #MedPhys #RadiationOncology

The authors investigated the imaging of titanium vs. Carbon/PEEK pedicle screws at 0.55T, 1.5T, and 3T, with and without advanced metal artifact reduction techniques.
Their findings demonstrate that techniques such as WARP and SEMAC effectively reduce metal artifacts near titanium implants at all three field strengths. In contrast, Carbon/PEEK screws could be imaged using standard #MRI protocols without implant-related image artifact.

It is essential to acknowledge that there are numerous considerations involved in imaging with metal implants. Metal artifact reduction strategies often come at the cost of reduced SNR, increased scan times, and higher SAR. Imaging at lower field strengths (e.g., 0.55T) and with non-metal hardware may dramatically simplify protocol development in such scenarios.

Beyond excellent soft-tissue contrast, MRI techniques like diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) offer valuable functional information that aids in assessing tissue viability, identifying areas of hypoxia, and optimizing dose delivery based on tumor biology. Furthermore, MRI can facilitate monitoring of tumor response and treatment efficacy during and after radiation therapy without concerns over
ionizing radiation exposure.

This capability empowers clinicians to evaluate treatment response and adapt treatment plans as needed. Whether in treatment planning,
functional imaging, or treatment follow-up, addressing the challenge of imaging with spine implants requires close collaboration between radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and radiologists. Optimization of MRI protocols, development of artifact reduction strategies, and accurate integration of MRI data into the treatment planning process are paramount. Despite these challenges, the benefits of using MRI in spine radiation therapy should outweigh the limitations, and ultimately lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients with spinal tumors.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jun 11

Whole-Body Evaluation of the Bone using PD-Weighted VIBE Sequences with Deep Learning Reconstruction and Applications in Oncology by Prof. Padhani et al. (Paul Strickland Scanner Centre, Mount Vernon Hospital). Download 1.5T #MRI protocol: www.magnetomworld.siemens-healthineers.com/hot-topics/q...

$In the last decade, whole-body MRI (WB-MRI) has been established as a standard diagnostic and treatment-monitoring tool for cancer patients with bone disease. Bone metastases are a common finding in late-stage cancer patients and can be associated with poorer prognosis, treatment resistance, and tumor-related adverse skeletal events, such as fractures, spinal cord compression, and the need for bone radiotherapy. Standard WB-MRI protocols, as prescribed in MET-RADS and MY-RADS, focus exclusively on the evaluation of bone marrow involvement, largely because of the inability to visualize the mineralized bone. Thus, WB-MRI has always had the limitation of requiring computed tomography (CT) scans to confidently evaluate the bone structure for surgical interventions and RT planning. Recent advances have focused on generating CT-like images using MRI. Acquiring CT-like images simultaneously with conventional WB-MRI could reduce the need for additional CT appointments, eliminate ionizing radiation doses, and minimize spatial registration errors. Indeed, the creation of synthetic CT-like images for radiotherapy planning purposes is already possible using the syngo.via RT Image Suite. However, these images cannot provide the level of bone matrix detail needed for the radiological diagnosis of bone pathology. Multiple investigators have reported bone MRI using a variety of VIBE and ZTE/UTE approaches. Structures with no signal return show black against a uniformly gray soft tissue background — known as “black-bone” imaging. When the image contrast is inverted, the bone appears white, like that in CT. Deep Resolve reconstruction could cut whole-body diffusion-weighted imaging (WB-DWI) sequences by almost 50% without corresponding declines in image quality. Building on their experience, the authors developed and clinically implemented a proton density (PD)-weighted VIBE sequence using Deep Resolve to demonstrate its added value for bone imaging in WB-MRI examinations.$

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Jun 9

Download Guideline-compliant High Res #MRI Rectal Protocols by Prof. Kirsten Gormly (Jones Radiology, Adelaide). These 1.5 & 3T protocols deliver the detail required for treatment planning. www.magnetomworld.siemens-healthineers.com/clinical-cor... #ESGAR2026 #ESGAR #OncoSky #RadSky #MagnetomWorld

MRI for local staging and restaging of rectal cancer is a cornerstone of modern multidisciplinary treatment.
High resolution MRI is recommended by global organizations, as the quality of the images has a direct impact on radiologists’ ability to accurately assess the tumor.
To ensure clinical consistency, we provide protocols which meet the recommendations from ESGAR (European Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Radiology), SAR (Society of Abdominal Radiology, USA) and Australian organizations.

These protocols are optimized for varied MAGNETOM systems to deliver the high-contrast, high-resolution detail required for treatment planning.

• Protocols for high-resolution T2W:
Small FOV, thin-slice (3 mm) sequences with base in-plane resolution 0.6 x 0.6 mm (0.3 x 0.3 x 3.0 mm with Deep Resolve). Sagittal and aligned to the tumor axis for optimized assessment of T-stage, Extramural Venous Invasion, Lymph Node and Mesorectal Fascia involvement.

• Protocols for DWI:
High b-value diffusion-weighted imaging (b = 800 s/mm^2) to increase sensitivity for post-treatment response.

• Large FOV protocols for LM staging:
Axial overview of the entire pelvis to identify distant lymphadenopathy.

Download the guideline-compliant .exar1 and PDF protocol packages for your 1.5T or 3T system

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· May 31

Helpful Hints for Using Deep Learning Image Reconstruction by Mario Zeller, PhD (Siemens Healthineers). Learn about preview, SNR, and g-factor noise amplification: marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/782a2a42694e... #MRI #MedPhys #RadSky #AI #DeepResolve

The effect on the image quality and SNR can be seen in the figure. For conventional GRAPPA acquisitions, the images become noisier. For Deep Resolve acquisitions the noise level is reduced, although very fine image features may be subject to increased blurring.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· May 27

Working on MAGNETOM Flash #100 has meant revisiting past editions — and rediscovering articles that still resonate today. One standout: Gary McNeal, MS (BME), “The Various Definitions of TR.” marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/180000000607... #MRI #MedPhys #RadSky #CMR #CardioSky

In the practice of Cardiac MRI, various definitions of the parameter TR (Repetition Time) have evolved, as gated pulse sequences have become increasingly complex.
Understandably this has caused significant confusion among many users. In some cases, the original concept of TR seems to have been lost.

This article describes the various definitions of TR.
While the physical definition of TR will always mean only one thing, the time between successive excitation pulses, a number of variations have resulted from the necessity of controlling a pulse sequence within the cardiac cycle.
Hopefully, this brief explanation, along with the accompanying diagrams, will make the topic easier to understand for everyone working in cardiac MRI.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· May 7

#ESOC2026 is on in Maastricht. Check out this new edition with an editorial by Prof Johannes Kaesmacher (Inselspital, University of Bern, Switzerland): www.magnetomworld.siemens-healthineers.com/publications... Thank you to all contributers! #Stroke #NeuroSky #MRI #Neurology #PatientOutcomes #ESOC26

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· May 1

May is #BrainTumorAwarenessMonth I’d like to highlight: Enhancing Outcomes with Intraoperative #MRI and #Radiomics in #Glioma Surgery by Dr. Philip Rauch, et al. (Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria). marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/b4007aa53fe6... #NeuroSky #ioMRI #Neurosurgery

Gliomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors in adults. They originate from central nervous system glial cells and are categorized by the WHO into grades 1 to 4. Common types in adults include glioblastoma (grade 4), astrocytic tumors (grades 1–3), oligodendrogliomas (grades 2, 3), and ependymomas (grades 1–3). Glioblastoma is notably aggressive, with a two-year survival rate below 10%.
Achieving the maximal extent of resection has been shown to enhance both progression-free survival and overall survival in the surgical treatment of gliomas. The optimal surgical strategy for gliomas requires balancing aggressive tumor removal with minimizing the risk of new or worsened neurological deficits to ensure better outcomes.

Due to the diffuse nature of gliomas, neurosurgeons face a significant challenge in accurately identifying the boundary between tumor tissue and adjacent brain matter. Hence, glioma resection is guided by the anatomical expertise of the surgeon, which can be aided by visualization techniques, making the selection of the appropriate imaging strategies crucial in glioma surgery. The authors provide an overview of the possibilities for visualizing brain-tumor margin, with a particular focus on the input of intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (ioMRI). They also present a case in which we performed ioMRI with machine learning-based radiomics.

Shoutout to the co-authors: Baran Atli, M.D.; Martin Aichholzer, M.D.; Andreas Gruber, M.D.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Apr 28

Wake-Up Strokes: Advanced Imaging Solutions for Time-Sensitive Neurological Emergencies by Dr Anirudda Deshpande, MD (Altnagelvin Hospital, Londonderry, Northern Ireland, UK). marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/09922ad217e8... #NeuroSky #RadSky #Stroke #WakeUpStroke #BrainHealth #MRI

Wake-up strokes account for 14%–28% of all ischemic strokes and present a unique diagnostic challenge. Patients awaken with neurological deficits, making it impossible to determine the onset time of the stroke.

Historically, this uncertainty excluded these patients from thrombolytic therapy, as traditional protocols required confirmed symptom onset within 4.5 hours.
Today, advanced neuroimaging is changing this paradigm.

The shift from rigid time windows to flexible tissue windows, guided by advanced MRI techniques has transformed wake-up strokes from untreatable conditions to intervention opportunities.

Successful intervention requires integrated emergency response, rapid imaging capabilities, expert interpretation, streamlined protocols, and robust monitoring.

Innovations in medical technology — including high-field MRI systems, accelerated sequences, automated analysis software, and algorithms — continue to expand access to evidence-based treatment.

For healthcare systems, investing in advanced imaging infrastructure and specialized teams directly translates into improved outcomes. For patients, stroke symptoms require immediate medical attention regardless of onset time.

Wake-up strokes no longer automatically exclude patients from treatment. Through continued collaboration among clinicians, researchers, and medical-technology innovators, the 14%–28% of stroke patients whose symptoms begin during sleep can increasingly receive interventions that preserve brain tissue and function.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Apr 26

How Deep Learning Reconstruction Impacts #Radiomics Features in Abdominal #MRI by Jingyu Zhong, MD; et al. (Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China). Learn more: marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/252c26ab79d8... #RadSky #DeepLearning #AI #HASTE

Deep learning reconstruction (DLR) is a double-edged sword for radiomics. While it addresses bottlenecks in MRI workflows, its feature perturbations demand rigorous validation.

Radiomics, which extracts quantitative features from medical images for clinical decision-making, has gained in popularity. Yet it faces challenges caused by its sensitivity to acquisition parameters, reconstruction algorithms, and post-processing techniques.

DLR enables acceptable image quality and faster acquisitions, and it is therefore expected to be widely adopted in the future. However, the influence of DLR and the combined effects of DLR and accelerated acquisition on radiomics features have not yet been investigated. It is necessary to evaluate in advance the potential changes that the new technique could cause to radiomics features.

This study provides a basis for future research into establishing radiomics models using images from an accelerated HASTE sequence with DLR. The authors investigated the impact of DLR and accelerated acquisitions on the robustness of radiomics features in abdominal scans acquired using a HASTE sequence.

By adhering to standardized protocols and investing in robustness testing, the radiology community can harness the full potential of DLR without compromising the diagnostic promise of radiomics.

Shoutout to the co-authors: Yang Song, Minda Lu, and Dominik Nickel

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Apr 24

Deep Learning Reconstruction to Support Clinical Adoption of Submillimeter #Neuroimaging at #7T. Piotr Radojewski, MD (inselbruppe.bsky.social), et al. 📄 marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/d101b2500100... #MRI #UHF #NeuroSky #RadSky #DeepLearning @tomhilbertmri.bsky.social

Ultra-high-field MRI (7 Tesla and above) enables submillimeter spatial resolution that creates new opportunities for detailed neuroanatomical assessment and lesion characterization. However, long acquisition times are a major barrier to routine clinical use.

The authors illustrate how deep learning-based reconstruction enables higher acceleration of high-resolution brain imaging while preserving diagnostic image quality and thereby supporting the broader clinical usability of 7T MRI.

Shoutout to the co-authors: Thomas Yu, Jocelyn Philippe, Gabriele Bonanno, Kevin Battistini, Caterina Bernetti, Roland Wiest, Marwan El-Koussy, Natalia Pato Montemayor, Dominik Nickel, Patrick Liebig, Robin M. Heidemann, Felix T. Kurz, Jean-Philippe Thiran, Tom Hilbert, Tobi Kober, Gian Franco Piredda

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Apr 21

Explore the #ISMRM 2026 edition MAGNETOM Flash 👉 www.magnetomworld.siemens-healthineers.com/publications... #ISMRT #MRI #AccessToMRI #Sustainability #DeepResolve #UHF #7T #ioMRI #MRinRT #Radiotherapy #Neuromodulation #Collaboration #MagnetomWorld #NeuroSky #RadSky @tomhilbertmri.bsky.social

Explore the ISMRM 2026 edition MAGNETOM Flash with an Editorial Comment on “Ubuntu in the global conversation around MRI access” by Ernesta Meintjes, PhD (University of Cape Town (UCT), Cape Town, South Africa).

As a peer-to-peer journal with more than 30 years in the MR community, MAGNETOM Flash reflects that progress in MRI is driven by community and collaboration. Inspired by the ISMRM motto “Ubuntu – I am because we are” this issue has a focus on expanding access to MRI, evolving guidelines, and the real-world impact of deep learning reconstruction.

👏 A big thank you to all contributors!

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Apr 18

Optimized #MRI Sequences for New Diagnostic Biomarkers of #MultipleSclerosis by Pascal Sati, PhD; et al. (Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, USA). 👉 📥Learn more and download the SWI and T2* EPI protocol from: www.magnetomworld.siemens-healthineers.com/clinical-cor... #NeuroSky #RadSky #MS

The 2024 revisions of the international diagnostic criteria for multiple sclerosis introduce an expanded role for MRI by incorporating two novel imaging biomarkers: the central vein sign (CVS) and paramagnetic rim lesions (PRL). Recent MRI guidelines developed by the MAGNIMS-CMSC-NAIMS consortia provide practical recommendations for implementing the MRI sequences required for accurate biomarker detection and reliable identification of MS.

Given the need for rapid clinical adoption of these newly integrated imaging biomarkers, the article outlines practical strategies to support the integration of appropriate susceptibility MRI sequences into routine diagnostic workflows. The use of an optimized susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) protocol is recommended to ensure sensitive detection of CVS, while filtered phase images are suggested for improved detection of PRL. When available, advanced 3D echo planar imaging (EPI) sequences are recommended to acquire submillimeter isotropic images, enabling multiplanar evaluation of T2*-weighted and filtered phase images and increasing diagnostic confidence in the assessment of CVS and PRL.

Shoutout to all authors and co-authors 👏 Sreekanth Madhusoodhanan Nair, Jin Jin, Chang Gao, Nader Binesh, Thomas Benkert, Marcel Maya

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Apr 16

Democratizing Neuroimaging: A Global #MRI Training Program to Strengthen Neuroimaging Capacity in LMICs by Dr Udunna Anazodo (@theneuro.bsky.social); et al. marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/704a56e0b6f0... @cameramriafrica.bsky.social #AccessToCare #DemocratizingMRI #RadSky #NeuroSky

Neurological disorders remain a growing public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where limited resources, workforce shortages, and infrastructure constraints continue to impact access to care.

Neuroimaging, especially MRI, plays a critical role in improving diagnosis and clinical management, yet its adoption in these regions is constrained by infrastructure, financing, and training gaps.
The Scan With Me (SWiM) program addresses these challenges through a structured, train-the-trainer model designed to strengthen MRI capacity. Since 2023, the program has trained 233 MRI technologists across 25 LMICs, delivering extensive instruction, hands-on observerships, and peer-to-peer collaboration to optimize imaging protocols and improve clinical practice.

In parallel, technological innovation is expanding access to MRI. The installation of a 0.55T MAGNETOM Free.Max system in Rwanda demonstrates how simplified infrastructure requirements, reduced energy consumption, and flexible deployment can enable high-quality diagnostic imaging in resource-constrained environments.
Together, scalable training initiatives and innovative MRI solutions can empower healthcare professionals, democratize access, enhance diagnostic precision and clinical decision-making, and ultimately improve patient outcomes across resource-constrained settings.

Shoutout and thank you to the authors and co-authors!

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Apr 11

On #WorldParkinsonsDay, I'd like to highlight “ASL as a Potential Biomarker in Imaging of #Neurodegenerative Disorders” by Prof. Sandhya Mangalore, et al. (Nat. Inst. of Mental Health and Neurosciences, India). 📄 marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/1a09d90d690b... #NeuroSky #MRI #PETMRI

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Apr 8

#Neurofeedback for Treating #Depression: An Emerging Application of Real-Time Functional #MRI by Dr. rer. nat. Rainer Goebel & David Linden, MD (@maastrichtu.bsky.social). 🔗 marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/bf679062073a... #NeuroSky #Psychology #fMRI #RadSky @tomhilbertmri.bsky.social

In functional MRI (fMRI) neurofeedback, a closed-loop brain-computer interface enables participants to learn how to self-regulate brain activity using real-time feedback.
This method is gaining traction in both scientific and clinical settings. Several 3T MRI studies have shown the promise of this approach as an add-on treatment for depression, helping patients improve emotion regulation and self-efficacy.

Conventional neurofeedback cannot distinguish specific emotions. It is therefore unclear whether a patient is engaging in a positive or negative emotional mental state. To address this ambiguity, a new semantic neurofeedback approach maps individual emotions onto a two-dimensional space, visualizing the current emotional state as a moving point on this map.

This technique allows participants to actively navigate their emotional space, offering clearer and potentially more effective therapy for depression. A 7-Tesla proof-of-concept study shows promise for this new real-time fMRI neurofeedback method.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Mar 22

syngo NATIVE TrueFISP Non-Contrast MR Angiography: Pulmonary Arteries. See how Marcelo Fernandes Arêas (Siemens Healthineers) does it: marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/f735022ac942... #MRI #MRA #RadSky #MagnetomWorld @banksgaia.bsky.social

NATIVE (non-contrast angiography of the arteries and veins) is a contrast-free MR angiography technique designed to visualize vascular structures throughout of the body.
Tailored protocols for use in renal arteries and peripheral vessels are available within the protocol tree provided by Siemens Healthineers.
syngo NATIVE TrueFISP is based on the TrueFISP (true fast imaging with steady state precession) sequence, a balanced steady-state gradient echo technique.
The sequence can be made selective for arteries or veins by appropriate positioning of the inversion pulse, which can be positioned independently from the imaging volume.
The most robust method of performing syngo NATIVE TrueFISP is with respiratory triggering. With BioMatrix Technology, the respiratory sensor in the BioMatrix spine coil improves the workflow and increases efficiency.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Mar 10

Beyond the Clock: The Pivotal Role of Advanced #MRI in Revolutionizing the Diagnosis and Management of Brainstem #Stroke by Anirudda Deshpande, MD; et al. (Altnagelvin Hospital, Londonderry, Northern Ireland, UK). Learn more: marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/50f25c70149b... #NeuroSky

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Mar 8

Standardized cranial #SRS #MRI protocol by Simon Atkins (@iconcancercentre.bsky.social), optimized for syngo MR XA30–XA60. Prioritizing 1 mm isotropic 3D imaging with T1/T2 SPACE for consistent #MRinRT workflows. Download exar1 ⬇️ www.magnetomworld.siemens-healthineers.com/clinical-cor... #OnkoSky

Stereotactic Radiotherapy Cranial Protocol by Simon Atkins, BAppSc (Hons), MSc, DipIPEM(S), CMPS, and MACPSEM (ICON Cancer Centre Australia).

The goal was to establish a unified imaging protocol across ICON centers, ensuring consistency while remaining feasible across different baseline systems (syngo MR XA30, XA50, and XA60). A key objective was to create a workflow that could be implemented with minimal radiotherapy-specific expertise required from on-site radiographers.

Physician requirements focused on achieving 1 mm isotropic 3D imaging for SRS treatments. In response, T1 SPACE and T2 SPACE sequences were prioritized due to their superior spatial resolution and high-quality three-dimensional datasets compared with conventional T1 MPRAGE and T2 TSE acquisitions.
The MPRAGE and T2 TSE sequences were retained as optional components to accommodate site-specific preferences.

To support consistent implementation across sites, the protocol also includes guidance images and explanatory notes to assist radiographers during planning, with particular emphasis on maintaining critical parameters and avoiding unintended modifications.

Antje Hellwich@antjehellwich· Feb 28

March is #EndometriosisAwarenessMonth and I would like to highlight “Optimized Protocols for Uterus and Ovaries Guided by Recommendations from the #ESUR” by Elisa Roccia & Oleg Shagalov (Siemens Healthineers). 👉 Learn more: marketing.webassets.siemens-healthineers.com/4bf81f42b222... #MRI #RadSky