At the 2024 Annual Meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), GE HealthCare introduced two groundbreaking innovations: Aurora, a dual-head SPECT/CT system, and Clarify DL, an AI-powered image reconstruction technology. These solutions are designed to elevate diagnostic precision, streamline workflows, and support the shift towards personalized medicine.
Redefining SPECT/CT with Aurora
The Aurora SPECT/CT system is engineered to empower clinicians with advanced diagnostic capabilities. It combines single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with computed tomography (CT), creating hybrid imaging that captures both functional and anatomical information. Aurora’s advanced features aim to expand the scope of CT procedures possible on hybrid systems, enabling early detection and precise localization of abnormalities in conditions such as cancer and cardiac disorders.
“Aurora represents a significant leap forward in precision care and personalized medicine,” said Jean-Luc Procaccini, President and CEO of Molecular Imaging and Computed Tomography at GE HealthCare. “By providing clinicians with the tools to make informed decisions, Aurora enables tailored treatments that enhance patient outcomes. This aligns with our decade-long leadership in integrating AI and machine learning into healthcare, as seen with innovations like Clarify DL.”
Aurora utilizes GE HealthCare’s Revolution Ascend CT technology, offering advanced imaging capabilities that go beyond traditional hybrid systems. Key highlights include:
- 40mm CT detector coverage, double that of standard hybrid systems, enabling faster, more comprehensive scans.
- 75 cm-wide CT bore, enhancing patient comfort while accommodating high-speed scanning with a rotation speed of 0.35 seconds.
- Up to 128-slice imaging, supporting complex procedures like coronary CT angiography.
These features are designed to address diverse clinical needs, from routine imaging to sophisticated diagnostic applications.
Prof. Patrick Flamen, Head of the Nuclear Medicine Department at Brussels University Hospital, praised Aurora’s integration of SPECT and CT components:
Aurora offers a seamless, one-stop diagnostic experience. Its ability to deliver high-quality CT scans alongside whole-body SPECT imaging is remarkable. This machine is setting new standards in nuclear medicine.
Revolutionizing Workflows and Patient Outcomes
Aurora is equipped with cutting-edge digital and AI-driven solutions that enhance operational efficiency and diagnostic accuracy. These include:
- ASiR-V, which reduces radiation dose by up to 82%, decreases noise levels by up to 91%, and improves spatial resolution.
- SnapShot Freeze 2, minimizing motion blur during scans for sharper imaging of moving organs, like the heart.
- SwiftScan SPECT, enabling a 25% reduction in scan time or injected dose while maintaining diagnostic quality.
- SmartMar, which reduces imaging artifacts caused by metallic implants.
Additionally, Aurora incorporates Effortless Workflow, a suite of automation tools like Auto Prescription and Smart Plan. These innovations minimize manual interventions by technologists, making the process smoother and more comfortable for patients.
“Aurora is truly the Swiss army knife of nuclear medicine imaging,” added Bruno Vanderlinden, Medical Physics Expert at Brussels University Hospital. “Its versatility allows us to perform 2D, 3D, and dynamic imaging with exceptional quality, all while significantly reducing radiation exposure.”
AI-Powered Image Quality with Clarify DL
In parallel, GE HealthCare showcased Clarify DL, a deep-learning-based image reconstruction solution that enhances the quality of bone SPECT imaging. Designed to address traditional challenges like noise reduction, Clarify DL improves image resolution without compromising contrast or diagnostic confidence.
Clinical evaluations reveal that Clarify DL outperformed conventional techniques in 98% of exams, delivering sharper, more accurate images. Prof. Flamen noted, “The difference in image clarity between Clarify DL and standard reconstruction methods is striking. This technology significantly enhances diagnostic confidence.”
By harnessing AI, Clarify DL exemplifies GE HealthCare’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into nuclear medicine, enabling clinicians to deliver more precise and reliable diagnoses.
Driving the Future of Precision Medicine
GE HealthCare’s unveiling of Aurora and Clarify DL at RSNA 2024 underscores its dedication to advancing medical imaging technologies. These solutions aim to address the evolving needs of clinicians, enhance patient outcomes, and contribute to the broader shift towards personalized, precision medicine.
For more information about the Aurora SPECT/CT system and Clarify DL, visit GE HealthCare’s website or explore their booth at RSNA 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.
