Siemens is the first company to develop a complete commercial ASL (Arterial Spin Labeling) solution with the University of Pennsylvania. ASL is an application which enables perfusion imaging without the use of contrast agents. With this patent, Siemens will introduce syngo ASL, powered by Tim (Total imaging matrix), thereby allowing a broad range of users in both the clinical and research settings to get access to this promising application.
Arterial Spin Labeling (ASL) is an MR technique using the water in arterial blood as an endogenous contrast agent to evaluate perfusion non-invasively. It provides unique insight into human brain perfusion and function physiology by evaluating cerebral blood flow (CBF). ASL is capable of high spatial resolution perfusion imaging, making the technique very appealing in the evaluation of stroke, tumors, degenerative diseases, epilepsy but also in basic neuroscience, e.g. for studies of functional CBF changes.
Initially the techniques used for determining cerebral blood flow were rather invasive and involved the use of exogenous contrast agents, such as 15O labeled radiotracer in Positron Emission Tomography (PET). With MRI, brain perfusion studies have been commonly performed using exogenous Gadolinium-based contrast agents. The principles behind ASL are quite similar to those utilizing exogenous contrast agents. However, ASL is completely non-invasive: there is no radiation and no injection of contrast media necessary.
The Siemens syngo ASL implementation profits from the Tim technology by being integrated with Parallel Imaging – which reduces the acquisition time. In addition, Siemens has integrated its unique 3D PACE motion correction technique, which increases robustness in clinical and research use.
Siemens Medical Solutions is one of the world’s largest suppliers to the healthcare industry. The company is known for bringing together innovative medical technologies, healthcare information systems, management consulting, and support services, to help customers achieve tangible, sustainable, clinical and financial outcomes. Recent acquisitions in the area of in-vitro diagnostics – such as Diagnostic Products Corporation and Bayer Diagnostics – mark a significant milestone for Siemens as it becomes the first full service diagnostics company. Employing more than 41,000 people worldwide and operating in over 130 countries, Siemens Medical Solutions reported sales of 8.23 billion EUR, orders of 9.33 billion EUR and group profit of 1.06 billion EUR for fiscal 2006 (Sept. 30). Further information can be found by visiting http://www.siemens.com/medical
