Latest Cutting-Edge MRI Upgrade at Kessler Foundation Extends Superior Imaging Quality and Data Collection

Neuroimaging scanner modernization enhances the ability to pursue critically important work in disability rehabilitation

East Hanover, NJ – December 5, 2024 – The Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center at Kessler Foundation has upgraded its Siemens 3 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner to the latest state-of-the-art hardware and software. This significant enhancement incorporates the most advanced MRI imaging technology available, while delivering higher-resolution images and facilitating faster, more efficient data collection and analysis.

These improvements will accelerate discoveries in the Center’s rehabilitation research focused on traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury (SCI), stroke, and other neurological conditions. The modernization will also benefit the Foundation’s dozens of partners in New Jersey and New York, including academic institutions, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

The upgraded scanner, now transitioned from the SKYRA 3 Tesla to the VitaFit 3 Tesla, is supported by more powerful computers and features built-in artificial intelligence algorithms, enabling faster and higher-resolution imaging. Integrated sensors monitor vital signs throughout the scanning process, ensuring a more comfortable and seamless experience for patients and clinical study participants. 

“The unique operations of the updated MRI will generate high-quality data faster, which is necessary to help us continue developing interventions that will greatly help individuals with disabilities,” said Center Director Glenn Wylie, DPhil. “The capability to perform higher-caliber research will better serve these individuals,” he added. 

Dr. Wylie recounted a number of recent Center research studies using the MRI scanner for clearer insight of neuropathic pain after SCI, scans before and after spinal stimulation and exoskeleton rehabilitation, the effects on new learning and memory of cognitive rehabilitation strategies, the effect of exercise on brain function, and helping stroke survivors overcome persistent reading and language deficits.

“Some of the cutting-edge technologies the new scanner incorporates include biometric technology with integrated sensors that create a more homogeneous magnetic field, significantly enhancing imaging quality,” said Center Assistant Director Brian Yao, PhD.

“Another of the notable improvements is the detachable patient table,” Dr. Yao continued. “This allows for quicker and easier setup, especially for individuals with limited mobility. They can be prepared outside the scanner room, eliminating the need for transfers between wheelchairs and the scanner table.”

Additional multiple advancements include more powerful computational hardware, more channels for independent signal acquisition, state-of-the-art control software to view and process the images, all new head and flex coils with integrated BioMatrix sensors necessary for achieving the best image quality.

"We will gain even deeper insights into the impact of our rehabilitation interventions and refine them for greater efficacy with the enhanced scanner,” said Dr. Wylie. “For example, the new BioMatrix technology will help to individualize scans for every participant.” 

Since its opening in 2013, the Ortenzio Center has provided robust evidence allowing researchers to better understand the mechanisms underlying effective rehabilitation treatments. Over the past decade, the capabilities of the Ortenzio Center have solidified the Foundation as a leader in both the study of issues affecting people with disabilities and in the study of the mechanisms of rehabilitation interventions that improve quality of life. 

The scanner’s advanced capabilities will also broaden the scope of data the Center can gather. “It will grant us access to a new collection of sequences being developed now and in the future by manufacturers and academics as well as the ability to involve artificial intelligence,” explained Dr Wylie. “The new scanner capabilities will enhance our capacity to pursue critically important work in disability rehabilitation and continue to promote independence and inclusion for people with disabilities.” For more information, visit KesslerFoundation.org