Siemens Healthineers presents MAGNETOM Free.XL1, a 0.55T (Tesla) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system designed to meet the complex demands of interventional radiology. The scanner is intended to serve as the key element within a new integrated interventional MRI (iMRI) Suite1 from Siemens Healthineers. The discipline of interventional MRI leverages the exceptional soft tissue visualisation of magnetic resonance imaging to guide minimally invasive procedures with high precision. This is especially valuable in complex clinical areas. Free from ionising radiation, iMRI supports real-time imaging and safer workflows for both patients and clinical teams.2
“Our goal is to elevate health globally by supporting healthcare providers in efficiently delivering high-quality, patient-centred care”, said Alistair Piggot, head of Magnetic Resonance at Siemens Healthineers Great Britain & Ireland. “MAGNETOM Free.XL is designed to unlock the full potential of MR in the interventional suite, expanding the imaging toolbox by matching the right modality to the right patient at the right time.”
MAGNETOM Free.XL is planned to operate with DryCool technology3. This helium-independent design eliminates the need for a quench pipe, allowing more flexible installation in interventional suites. In 2021, Siemens Healthineers first introduced 0.55T MRI. This field strength helps improve visibility of interventional devices, reduce metal artifacts4, and minimise heat effects – key factors in safe and effective MR-guided interventions.5 An optionally lifted magnet and the extra-wide 100 cm flared bore opening of MAGNETOM Free.XL are designed to set a new standard for operator access, while ergonomic studies suggest potential improvements in endurance and reduced fatigue for interventionalists during procedures.6
The myNeedle Companion software1 is designed to transform MR-guided needle-based procedures through 3D path planning, skin entry-point marking, and real-time navigation.
MAGNETOM Free.XL is planned to be the central component of a new interventional MRI (iMRI) Suite from Siemens Healthineers. The complete solution jointly developed with Cook Medical unites the strengths of both companies to bring MRI into the interventional environment. The collaboration combines the leadership in imaging innovation of Siemens Healthineers with Cook Medical’s decades of expertise in interventional therapies, device design, and procedural education.7
To support high-resolution soft-tissue contrast and real-time imaging across a broad range of clinical applications, the system is expected to include XL gradients and the artificial intelligence-powered image reconstruction technology Deep Resolve. This enables cardiac MR imaging at 0.55T to enter clinical routine for the first time with MAGNETOM Free.XL.1 A complete coil portfolio, including form-adaptive contour and interventional7 coils, is planned to ensure patient-centric imaging and workflow flexibility. The Nexaris Dockable Table is intended to enable smooth patient transfer across diagnostic, intraoperative, and interventional settings. Building on this range of capabilities, MAGNETOM Free.XL also supports the full spectrum of diagnostic imaging at 0.55T – even outside interventional slots. This makes it a versatile solution for daily radiology routine, helping hospitals maximise scanner utilisation and reduce idle time.
“MAGNETOM Free.XL is poised to become a cornerstone of personalised treatment, not only for interventions, but also in diagnostic scenarios, such as for paediatric, bariatric, claustrophobic or pregnant patients”, said Professor Afshin Gangi, M.D., from University Hospital Strasbourg, France. “The open and ergonomic design supports comfortable patient access and helps to stay focused – even during long or back-to-back procedures.”
In addition to iMRI, Siemens Healthineers offers the industry’s most comprehensive image-guided therapy portfolio including mammography, ultrasound, Varian interventional oncology solutions, as well as advanced CT and angiography systems. Interventional MRI adds a new dimension to this setup, paving the way for potential synergies in the interventional suite in the future.
