Source: ET
Context: AIIMS New Delhi is set to install India’s first indigenously developed MRI scanner for clinical evaluation.
- The initiative aims to reduce dependency on imported medical devices and promote ‘Make in India’ innovation.
About India’s first indigenously developed MRI scanner:
- What it is:
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- The first fully indigenously developed 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner designed for advanced medical imaging and clinical trials.
- Developed by:
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- Developed by SAMEER (Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering and Research), an autonomous R&D body under Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY).
- To be installed in:
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- Planned installation at AIIMS New Delhi by October 2025 for clinical evaluation and feedback.
- Project under:
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- Developed under the national mission SCAN-ERA (Swadeshi Chumbakiya Anu-naad Chitran – Ek Rashtriya Abhiyaan), started in December 2014.
- Key Features:
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- Indigenous technology aimed at reducing treatment costs.
- 1.5 Tesla MRI system designed to match global clinical standards.
- Backed by government’s PLI scheme for medical devices.
- Complements development of other critical devices like CT scanners, LINACs, and heart valves under PLI.
About MRI Scanner Working:
- Scientific principle behind working:
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- MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radiofrequency pulses to align and excite protons in body tissues.
- As protons realign with the magnetic field, they release energy, which sensors capture to create 3D anatomical images.
- Used for:
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- Imaging of soft tissues, brain, spinal cord, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
- Detecting tumors, aneurysms, neurological disorders, and musculoskeletal injuries.
- Functional MRI (fMRI) tracks brain activity during cognitive tasks.
- Risks associated:
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- Magnetic interference: Dangerous for patients with implants like pacemakers or cochlear devices.
- Noise discomfort: Loud clicking sounds may cause discomfort; ear protection is recommended.
- Claustrophobia: Patients may face anxiety inside closed MRI tunnels; open MRI systems address this issue.
- Contrast agents: Risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in dialysis patients from gadolinium-based agents.
