As useful as they may be, actually getting an MRI is a different story. During an MRI, you’re placed in a small opening just large enough for a single person, but the machine itself is a large metal machine that takes up the space of nearly an entire room. In some cases, patients are given headphones to reduce the loud banging noise produced by the imaging machine while taking high-resolution images. While inside the imaging machine, patients are not allowed to move or use cell phones, as it could negatively affect the magnetic field and interfere with the results. Aspect Imaging is the life science company and manufacturer of the compact MRI systems that recently stepped onto the scene with its updated and compact version of MRI machines. The Israel-based startup has a suite of eight solutions that have the power to change the way MRI exams are conducted altogether. The company’s technology has already been used in both the preclinical trials and the advanced industrial field to research and develop solutions for complex medical conditions like cancer. Likely they are aiming to remove the feeling of claustrophobia one gets when undergoing a traditional MRI with their compact MRI machines. Aspect’s WristView technology is specifically designed for those needing hand and wrist imaging, and a full scan using the device can be done in under twenty minutes. A few other features I found to be improvements on traditional MRIs are that patients only have to place their hand / wrist in the machine for the scan, physicians can view results almost instantly on a mobile device or the machine’s screen, and patients can utilize their free hand to hold their personal mobile devices. Aspect Imaging hopes to become a leader in MRI technology but could face many challenges along the way, although getting physicians and hospital administrators to realize the value in their solution shouldn’t be one of them. All of their machines are compact and more affordable than traditional solutions, and for me that’s the biggest selling point. On the other hand, convincing hospitals and clinics to dispose of their current technology that costs undoubtedly millions of dollars should be a challenge. If Aspect can do this, they just might be able to redefine the words “MRI scan” altogether.
