In high field MRI, acoustic noise is typically one of the unwanted features. In the pursuit of high quality images with very fast scan times, MRI noise is quite loud. This is a result of the gradient magnetic field that must operate at extremely high speeds. Some measures are known to be taken, such as earplugs and headphones for the patient, active noise cancellation technology and a silent sequence. All of these have their shortcomings and often decrease the chances of a successful scan.
Finding a solution to this problem was a challenge. Toshiba developed a noise reduction technology that does not affect image quality or scan time. It is named Pianissimo - because of its parallels to music - meaning 'very softly' or 'very quietly'.
What is Pianissimo?
Pianissimo is Toshiba's unique noise reduction technology available for all Vantage MRI systems. Quiet MRI scanning means that patients can be more relaxed. This immediately results in fewer artifacts and better image quality.
How much noise is reduced by Pianissimo?
Because of the breakthrough Pianissimo technology, an acoustic noise reduction of >90% of conventional MRI systems can be achieved. This makes MRI examinations a very quiet and patient friendly experience.
How can this be compared?
For example, 'cutting noise by 90%', is equivalent to the noise reduction of being 40 meters away from a point source of noise.
How does this new technology work?
Toshiba has developed a unique 'triple-cut' noise reduction technology by surrounding the gradient magnetic coil in a vacuum space. This special vacuum-sealed gradient coil is a patented Toshiba technique that has no equal! Noise is further reduced by reduced (the second 'cut') by separating the gradient coil from the magnet structure. The gradient coil and vacuum vessel are mounted on a support that separates the gradient coil from the magnet structure. Such a separate support system provides independent suspension for the vibrating gradient coil. Special insulators further dampen mechanical energy (which produces acoustic noises) from the sealed gradient vacuum vessel.
Does the Pianissimo technology influence the image quality?
Pianissimo does not affect the function of the gradient coil, but in the contrary it has an indirect positive effect on the image quality. Due to the fact that the patient experience lower noise levels, the shock effect introduced by the sudden activation of the gradient coils is far less, consequently there are far less motion artefacts in the first images. This effect can be clearly seen when scanning paediatrics. In this way, significant noise reduction is achieved without compromising scan performance. More over, the same level of acoustic noise reduction will be achieved with future faster sequences.
Which system has the Pianissimo technology incorporated?
All high field Vantage MRI systems haves a 1.5T short, wide bore magnet and powerful gradients. Together with this gradient noise reduction technology, the basic physics of MRI system design have been re-engineered.
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