GE Healthcare

SIGNA CREATOR ™
Technical Data
Contents
Magnet..................................................................................................................................................................3
Patient Table........................................................................................................................................................4
Gradient System.................................................................................................................................................5
Host computer and Recon engine...................................................................................................................6
RF Transmit and Receive...................................................................................................................................7
Optical RF.......................................................................................................................................................7
RF Coils and arrays......................................................................................................................................8
Imaging and display parameters....................................................................................................................9
Workflow........................................................................................................................................................... 11
Parallel Imaging............................................................................................................................................... 13
Post processing................................................................................................................................................ 14
ScanTools ......................................................................................................................................................... 15
Neuro Imaging........................................................................................................................................... 18
Body and Breast Imaging......................................................................................................................... 20
Orthopedic Imaging.................................................................................................................................. 21
Cardiac and Vascular Imaging................................................................................................................. 22
Pediatric Imaging...................................................................................................................................... 24
Site Planning and power consumption........................................................................................................ 25
Magnet
The cornerstone of MRI Magnet Homogeneity‡
The SIGNA Creator system features the stable, short-bore, highly
homogeneous superconducting CXK4 magnet. V-RMS Homogeneity Specifications
Diameter of Specified Minimum Typical ppm
High Homogeneity Spherical Volume ppm
The homogeneity of the magnet contributes to consistently -DSV
achieving high image quality in applications such as:
10 cm < 0.02 < 0.004
• Large FOV imaging, up to 50 cm x 50 cm x 50 cm
20 cm < 0.06 < 0.02
• Off-center imaging such as Liver, Shoulders and dual-breasts.
30 cm < 0.14 < 0.06
• Robust and dependable Fat saturation and
40 cm < 0.35 < 0.27
•O
 ther advanced applications such as tumor staging-screening, 45 cm < 0.97 < 0.81
Diffusion EPI, Tensor Imaging and Spectroscopy
48 cm < 2.00 < 1.65
Operating Field 1.5 Tesla
Shim coils 18 superconducting coils ‡
Volume Root–Mean–Square (V – RMS method with 24 measurements in
each of 13 planes
Magnet shielding Active Shield with 3 Linear shim channels
EMI shielding 99% shielding factor
LV-RMS Homogencity
Size (L x W x H) with 195 x 251 x 238
enclosures in cm DSV (Diametrical Specified Minimum Typical ppmw
Spherical Volume) ppm
Magnet cooling Liquid Helium only
10 cm < 0.05 < 0.025
Temporal field < 0.1 ppm/hr
stability 20 cm < 0.25 < 0.05

Long term magnet < 0.1 ppm 30 cm < 0.50 < 0.25
stability 40 cm < 1.00 < 0.50
Manufacturer GE Healthcare 45 cm < 1.23 < 0.63
Cryogen Tank 2,000 Lit 48 cm < 2.00 < 0.95
Boil off rate Zero boil offUnder normal operating
conditions L arge Volume Root–Mean–Square LV – RMS is the most rigerous
Cryogen refill period Typically 4 years method with over 173,000 measurement collected over spherical
volume. LV RMS measurements make use of the entire imaging
chain.
Patient comfort features:
The SIGNA Creator magnet enclosures are designed for patient
comfort.
• Dual-flared patient bore with 105 cm flare in the front
• 45.7 cm spacious vertical space between the table-top and the
gantry inside the bore
• In-bore lighting and ventilation
• Two-way In-bore Intercom system
• Feet-first positioning
• Laser alignments for axial and sagittal reference planes
• Dual sided controls

3
Patient Table
Low Height Fixed table:
Patient Table Height 49.0 cm to 96.5 cm continuous
Patient Table Drive Automated, power driven
Vertical & longitudinal
Longitudinal Speed 10.0 cm/sec (fast) and 1.25
cm/sec (slow)
Vertical Speed 1.2 to 2.4 cm/sec
Total Table Length 225.5 cm
Total Table Travel 244.0 cm
Positioning repeatability ± 1.0 mm
Maximum Patient weight for 159kg
scanning

4
Gradient System
The SIGNA Creator gradients deliver outstanding spatial and The gradients are non-resonant and actively shielded to reduce
temporal resolution. The high slew rate and 100% duty cycle eddy currents.
provide short TR, TE and echo spacing (ESP) to achieve adequate
temporal resolution.
Vibro-acoustic isolation:
The SIGNA Creator 1.5T MR system utilizes a single module, GE has designed a special Vibro-acoustic dampening pad to
consisting of the gradient and RF Body coil. It is epoxy-filled isolate the magnet from the building and thereby reduce the
and both water and air-cooled for a high-level duty cycle transmission of acoustic noise in the structures in the vicinity. This
performance. pad is positioned under the feet of the magnet and its dampening
The low-power water-cooled gradient amplifier ensures characteristics are optimized for the 1.5T LCC magnet.
that SIGNA Creator remains highly energy-efficient without
compromising the temporal resolution. 3D Geometry Correction
This standard feature applies gradient-position error correction
in asymmetric, off-centre and large FOVs to improve the Image
Quality. It is available for gapless 2D prescriptions and all 3D
prescriptions except single slice, radial slices, multi-angle
and Propeller.

Peak Amplitude 33 mT/m per axis

Peak Slew rate 120 T/m/s per axis
Maximum Effective Amplitude 57 mT/m
(Vector addition)
Maximum Effective Slew Rate 208 T/m/s
(Vector addition)
Rise time to maximum 275 micro seconds
Amplitude
Gradient Duty Cycle 100%
Gradient amplifier Maximum output current 300
A
Maximum output voltage
1400 V.

5
Host computer and Recon engine
SIGNA Creator provides adequate processing speed and Main Processor Quad-core Intel processor
image storage capacity to handle even the most demanding
applications. Clock rate 2.4 GHz
Memory 48GB ECC DDR3 1333
Host Computer
Hard disk storage 300 GB and 1 x 100GB
Main CPU Intel Xeon Quadcore Processor Ethernet Transfer speed 1 GB/s
Clock rate 3.6 GHz Reconstruction speed 14,000 FFT/second at 256 x 256
Main Memory 32 GB matrix for full FOV
Cabinets Convertible minitower Operator console:
Hard disk 3 x 300 GB Hard-disk Scan control keyboard assembly with intercom speaker,
microphone and volume controls, and emergency stop switch.
Image Storage 400,000 uncompressed 256 x 256 image
storage An enhanced multi-tasking, simultaneous processing architecture
DVD Image exchange and short-term storage is manages all processes to help prevent loss of work and disruption
possible with DVD writer when desktops are switched.

The DVD capacity is 35,000 images per 4.7 GB Display Monitor:

DVD • 24.1” LCD landscape Color Monitor
• Flicker free and High 1920 x 1200 dot resolution
Recon Engine
• Automatic backlight technology
Reconstruction performance today is challenged by explosive
growth in data, and increased computational complexity. The • Wide Viewing Angle Technology with 1000:1 contrast ratio
amount of data to be stored and processed continues to increase • Digital DVI interface
with the advances in MR system technology. The SIGNA Creator
is designed to meet that challenge with 8 GB-memory and fast
recon speed.

6
RF Transmit and Receive
The SIGNA Creator is based on 8/16 high bandwidth receivers. RF Transmit
Signals from independent receive coils within an array, are directly
connected to independent receive channels for excellent SNR in all RF amplifier Water-cooled Compact,
applications. solid-state
Maximum output power 10 kw for body and 2 kw
Optical RF for head
Conventional design of the MR scanner places the RF receivers in Maximum RF field >24 µT
the electronics room. In such design strategies, the MR signal is
RF Exciter Frequency 63.86 ± 0.65 MHz
susceptible to random electrical noise prior to being digitized by
the ADCs. Amplitude control 16 bit
The OpTix RF receivers are located inside the magnet Frequency resolution >0.596Hz/step
enclosures in the shielded scan room, isolated from external Phase resolution <0.0055 deg/step
noise sources. The MR signal is digitized within the scan room
and transmitted via fiber optic cables to the reconstruction Amplitude stability <0.09 dB/minute
engine in the electronics room. The close proximity of the Phase stability <1.5 deg/minute
receivers to the patient reduces noise and improves image
Frequency stability 14 parts per billion
quality.
RF pulse control Digital
Optical RF technology increases SNR for all volume acquisitions,
independent of which surface coil is being used.
RF Receive
Receive channels 8
Analogue to Digital converters 8
Sampling rate 80 MHz @ 16 bits per
channel
ADC sampling resolution 16 bit
Receive signalfiltering/decimation Digital, non-recursive,
linear FIR
Quadrature demodulation Digital
Receive dynamic range >145 dB/Hz
Receive signal resolution Up to 32 bits
Pre-amplifier noise figure <0.5 dB for body

7
RF Coils and arrays
SIGNA Creator offers an assortment of quadrature and Optional Surface coils for all types of patient tables
multi-channel array coils to ensure outstanding image
quality and coverage. 8-channel lnvivo Brain array
8-channel Breast array
All the configurations include following two
3-channel shoulder array
Transmit/Receive coils:
Quadrature Knee/Foot birdcage coil with chimney design
Transmit /Receive •1
 6-rung quadrature birdcage coil 8-channel Foot/Ankle array
head coil with look-out mirror
8-channel Transmit/Receive Invivo Knee array
• Patient friendly with split-top design
4ch Flex Coil Large 53.5 x 24.0 cm
• 28 cm diameter and 38 cm length
4ch Flex Coil Small 37.5 x 24.0 cm
•A
 pplications include brain, extremities
and other miscellaneous applications 3” Round coil for orbits. ankle. IAC, wrist and other small
when other specialty coils are not structures
available 5” Round coil for orbits. ankle. lAC, wrist and other small
Transmit Receive • 16-rung quadrature birdcage coil structures
integrated body coil Dual Array adapter for simultaneous use of 2 x 3” round coils
•6
 0 cm inner diameter for up to 50 cm
FOV such as high-resolution dual TMJ

The Express coil suite, compatible with the fixed table

configuration, is designed to provide outstanding coverage, and
convenient workflow.

Express Head-Neck • 14-element

array •O
 ptimized for Brain, C-spine and
Neuro-Vascular MRA
• Removable top with Open-face design
• Lookout mirror
Express Posterior •1
 2-element coil with superb SI
Array coil embedded coverage of thorax, abdomen,
in the cradle pelvis, and TL spine
•H
 igh-sensitivity elements ensure
excellent contrast and resolution
Express Anterior array •8
 -channel imaging of the thorax,
AA coil4-element abdomen and pelvis in conjunction
with the Express Posterior Array
• Offers excellent SI and axial coverage
• L ightweight with openings for EKG
leads

8
Imaging and display parameters
Imaging Direct axial, sagittal, coronal, oblique and Image Display • Zoom/Roam/Flip/Rotate/Scroll
planes double/triple oblique plane imaging Features • Explicit Magnify & Magnifying Glass
3 Plane Localizer pulse sequence
• Image Measurement Tools Grid On/Off
Slice thickness •0
 .5 mm to 100 mm in 0.1 mm increments in • Cross Reference/User Annotation
2D mode • Exam/Series Page
•0
 .1mm to 10 mm in 0.1 mm increments in 3D • Hide Graphics/Erase Annotation/Screen Save
mode
• Accelerator Command Bar
•O
 perator variable inter-slice spacing in
increments as small as 0.1 mm. Interleave • Compare Mode/Reference Image/ Image
multi-slice imaging Enhance

•4
 – 512 contiguous slice volume imaging in • ClariView Image Filtering
increments of 2 in 3D mode • 5 image filters to achieve image sharpening
• 2D Standard Multi-Slice Imaging with as and image smoothing
many as 2048 slices • Minified Reference Scoutview
FOV • Body Coil: 1 to 50 cm in 1 cm increments in • Cine Paging (up to 4 windows and 128
all planes images/window)
• Ability to scan off-center FOV and • Add/Subtract /Edit Patient Data
Asymmetric FOV
Image • Two Graphic/Text planes overlay the entire
Imaging •P
 hase encoding from 32 to 1024 in steps of Annotation screen
Matrix 32. Frquency ecoding of 64 to 1024 Features • Grid placement with anatomical reference on
• Respiratory Triggering concurrent with ECG an image
gating
•D
 rawing and annotation may be added to
• ZIP (Zero Filled Interpolation Processing) and removed from images
methods:
Imaging • Respiratory Triggered FSE
• T hrough-plane ZIP (slice) reconstructs images Parameters • Flow Compensation
interpolated between acquired slices for
high-resolution 3D reformations • Respiratory Compensation
• In-plane ZIP (matrix) reconstructs data at a • Peripheral Pulse Gating
higher resolution matrix than selected, for • Graphic Prescription
optimized balance between SNR and
spatial resolution. Options include 512 ZIP • Explicit Saturation (SAT outside and inside the
and 1024 ZIP FOV and concatenated SAT)
Gating • Peripheral Gating • Graphic Saturation (oblique and cursor
placement SAT inside the FOV)
• Respiratory gating
• No Phase Wrap
• VCG Fating
• Fat/Water (Spectral Chem-Sat) Saturation
• Cardiac adaptive digital gating
• Extended Dynamic Range
Image Display 256 Image buffer (256 x 256) at 35 fps
• Phase and Frequency Offset
• Asymmetric FOV
• Square Pixel

9
Networking • DICOM 3.0 Basic Grayscale Print Service TR, TE, and Echo Spacing
Protocols Class
supported 128x128 256x256
• DICOM 3.0 send, receive and query/retrieve
2D Spin Echo
• InSite point-to-point
Shortest TR in ms 6.0 8.0
• TCP/IP (for system administration)
Shortest TE in ms 2.2 2.2
DICOM • DICOM 3.0 Modality Work List Service
Conformance Class supported with optional Connect Pro Min. Slice Thickness 0.6 mm 0.6 mm
Standards software Minimum FOV 10 mm 10 mm
• DICOM 3.0 Storage Service Class 2D Fast Spin Echo
• Service Class User (SCU) for image send Shortest TR in ms 10.0 11.0
• Service Class Provider (SCP) for image receive Shortest TE in ms 2.2 2.2
• DICOM 3.0 Query/Retrieve Service Class Min. Slice Thickness 0.5 mm 0.5 mm
• DICOM 3.0 Storage Commitment Service Min. Echo Spacing 2.2 2.2
Class in ms
• DICOM 3.0 Basic Grayscale Print Service Max ETL in SSFSE 264 264
Class 2D Fast Grad. Echo
Shortest TR in ms 2.3 2.8
Shortest TE in ms 0.8 1.0
Min. Slice Thickness 0.7 mm 0.7 mm
Minimum FOV 10 mm 10 mm
3D Fast Grad. Echo
Shortest TR in ms 0.88 1.2
Shortest TE in ms 0.22 0.30
Min. Slice Thickness 0.1 mm 0.1 mm
EPI
Shortest TR in ms 5.0 5.0
Shortest TE in ms 1.2 1.6
Min. Slice Thickness 0.6 mm 0.6 mm
Minimum FOV 40 mm 40 mm
Min. Echo Spacing 0.70 1.064
at 25 cm FOV in ms
Min. Echo Spacing 0.504 0.716
at 48 cm FOV in ms
Minimum shots 1 1
Maximum b value 10,000 10,000
s/mm2
Workflow
Ready Interface System
The SIGNA Creator Ready Interface incorporates many features
designed to lighten
the workload of the technologists. The SIGNA Creator includes an
automated
protocol-driven workflow and user interface designed for
consistency in generating high-quality imaging for all patients and
from all technologists. Simultaneous scanning, reconstructions,
filming, archiving, networking, and post-processing can
help achieve productivity, efficiency, and streamlined data
management.
Ready Brain Application
An MRI examination of the brain consists of a number of
connected steps. Ready
Brain provides the flexibility to automate these connected steps
from acquiring a localizer image, prescribing acquisition planes, Modality Worklist
scanning relevant series, performing The modality worklist (MWL) provides an automated method of
post-processing up to transferring the final image data to a obtaining exam and protocol information for a patient directly
reading station. By standardizing the steps of an exam and the from a DICOM Worklist server. The protocol may be selected well
location of the scan planes, such automation could result in in advance of the patient’s arrival at the MR suite, thereby simplifying
greater consistency, especially in the longitudinal follow-up. exam preparation and reducing necessary work by the technologist
Ready Brain features an automatic localizer, automatic calculation during the time-critical procedure. The ConnectPro software
of the mid-sagittal plane for 2D/3D prescription, determination of enables the DICOM worklist server class for the SIGNA Creator
the AC-PC line, and correction for extreme (>45 degree) rotation. Operator’s Console.

Express coil productivity Protocol libraries and properties

The Express coil suite, compatible with the fixed table The SIGNA Creator system protocols are organized into two main
configuration, is designed to provide convenient workflow when libraries, GE Optimized and Site Authored. For quick search and
imaging the central nervous system, thorax, abdomen and pelvis. selection, each protocol may be archived with independent
properties based on patient demographics, anatomy, type of
AutoStart acquisition, or identification number.
If AutoStart is selected, once the landmark position has been set
and the technologist exits the scan room, the Workflow Manager ProtoCopy
will automatically start the acquisition. This feature enables a complete exam protocol to be shared with
the click of a mouse. The exam protocol can originate from either
a library or previously acquired exam. This enables routine archive
Slider Bar
of protocols for emergency backup and simple management of
The SIGNA Creator scanning has been simplified with
libraries across multiple systems.
• Basic mode – designed for routine imaging
Workflow Manager
• Advanced mode – essential parameters are displayed such as Once a protocol has been selected for an exam, it is
FOV, slice thickness, TR, TE, Spacing automatically loaded into the Workflow Manager. The Workflow
• Export Mode – where all the parameters are displayed and Manager controls image prescription, acquisition, processing,
controlled visualization, and networking and may fully automate these steps if
requested.
The Slider Bar is designed to help you select optimal scan-time
for the most routine exam protocols by selecting within the
Inline viewing
Inline viewing allows the user to conveniently view, compare,
recommended 5 levels of scantime-resolution combinations. The
and analyze images without having to switch to the Browser.
parameters behind each level are optimized, such that even with
Simply select the series to view from the Workflow Manager and
the recommended shortest scan-time, the fundamental contrast
the images are displayed along with standard image display
expected from that protocol is preserved. This feature removes the
tools. By selecting multiple series at a time, a user can perform
guess work and random changes that novice operators tend to
image comparisons. The integrated viewer allows the user to
do with TR, bandwidth, spacing.
seamlessly move between scanning and image viewing.
For the advanced imaging user, of course, the advanced mode and
expert mode are always available.

11
Inline processing Linking
The SIGNA Creator workflow automates many of the routine Linking automates the prescription of images for each series in
tasks that previously required user interaction. This dramatically an exam. Once the targeted anatomical region has been located
reduces the workload for the user and helps ensure that the Linking feature combines information from a prescribed
consistent and repeatable images are presented for review. imaging series to all subsequent series in the Workflow Manager.
Processing steps are automatically completed immediately after All series that have been linked may automatically be prescribed
the data has been reconstructed and the images saved into the (Rx) and no further interaction will be needed by the technologist to
database. These automated processing steps can be saved in initiate the scan. Series can have common fields of view, obliquity,
the Protocol Library to ensure consistent exam workflow for each slice thickness, anatomical coverage, saturation bands, or shim
type of patient. For certain tasks, such as vascular segmentation, volumes.
the user must accept the results, or complete additional steps prior
to saving the images to the database. In these cases the data is Protocol Icon Shortcuts
automatically loaded into the appropriate tool, then the system will This unique and operator-friendly feature shows anatomical-
await further instruction by the user. Examples of fully automated pictorial shortcuts (icons) in the ‘Ready Shortcuts’ tab on the exam
and partially automated inline processing include: screen. These shortcuts icons are fixed. However the protocols
assigned to each icon can be customized in the ‘custom shortcuts’
Inline processing capabilities of the exam screen.
Diffusion Weighted Images ADC/ Automatic compute and save The pictorial icons are Brain, Pituitary, Vascular Brain, C-spine,
eADC Maps T-spine, L-spine, Shoulder joint, Wrist joint, Hip joint, Knee joint,
Diffusion Tensor Images FA/ADC Automatic compute and save Liver-Pancreas, Kidneys, Prostate and Uterus.
Maps
Image Filtering: A-E, SCIC, PURE Automatic compute and save
Maximum/MinimumIntensity Automatic compute and save
Projection
Reformat to orthogonal planes Automatic compute and save
T2 Map for cartilage evaluation Automatic compute and save
FiberTrak Automatic load
Spectroscopy – Single voxel brain Automatic compute and save
and breast metabolite
3D Volume Viewer Automatic load
Spectroscopy – 2D/3D Chemical Automatic load
Shift Imaging
BrainStat (Functool) Automatic load
Image Fusion Automatic load
IVI (Volume Viewer) Automatic load
Pasting Automatic load
SER (Functool) Automatic load
eDWI Automatic compute and save

12
Parallel Imaging†
ARC – Auto Calibrating Reconstruction • 3D TOF GRE
ARC helps to eliminate breath-hold mismatch errors by imbedding • 3D TOF SPGR
the calibration data within the scan data. In addition, this
reconstruction permits small FOV imaging by reducing focal • 3D FGRE
parallel imaging artifacts from the exam. Supporting both 1D • 3D FSPGR
and 2D acceleration, net acceleration factors of up to 3.4 can be
• 3D FGRE IDEAL
achieved.
• 3D FSPGR IDEAL
ASSET - Array Spatial Sensitivity Encoding Technique • 3D Fast TOF GRE
ASSET imaging option is a 1D image-based parallel imaging
technique used to speed up the data acquisition. For temporally • 3D Fast TOF SPGR
sensitive acquisitions, ASSET is designed to reduce image blurring • 3D FIESTA
and motion and enable greater anatomical coverage.
• 3D TRICKS
Parallel imaging acceleration factors ranging from 1 to 3.0 are
• 3D LAVA
supported depending on the coil.
• 3D Dual Echo
With the SIGNA Creator system, the following applications are
parallel imaging enabled. • 3D VIBRANT
• 2D Spin Echo • 2D GRE-EPI
• 2D T2 FLAIR • 2D SE-EPI
• 2D FLAIR EPI • 2D DW-EPI
• 3D FIESTA-C • 2D DT-EPI
• Inhance non-contrast MRA • BRAVO
• 3D SWAN • Propeller 3.0
• 2D FSE
• 2D FRFSE
• 2D FSE-IR
• 2D T1FLAIR
• 2D FSE Double IR
• 2D FSE Triple IR
• 2D T2MAP
• 2D FSE-XL IDEAL
• 2D FRFSE-XL IDEAL
• 2D SSFSE
• 2D SSFSE-IR
• 2D SSFSE MRCP
• 2D SSFSE 3-plane
• 3D FRFSE
• 3D CUBE
• 2D FGRE
• 2D FSPGR
• 2D FIESTA
• 2D FIESTA Fat Sat
• 2D FIESTA Fast CINE
• 2D MFGRE

† Some product features may not be available in all countries

13
Post processing
Multi-Projection Quick way to generate volumetric images FuncTool Performance
Volume for MR or CT Angiography without FuncTool Performance is an advanced MR-specific post-
Reconstruction threshold data or removing unwanted processing package with multiple algorithms to help you analyze
(MPVR) anatomy. and visualize the spatial and time-course based MR data.
The package runs on the main console and optionally on the
An entire volume is used to generate
Advantage* Workstation.
images in any plane, creating real time
frames of reference at the same time. Results are displayed in various formats including time-
intensity curves, parametric color overlays and metabolite
Multi-Planar Provides real time assessment of anatomy
ratio maps.
Reformation (MPR) in off-axis planes. Sagittal, coronal, oblique,
and curved planar reformations. These include:
Other standard Curved reformations • ADC and eADC maps
analysis features • Correlation coefficients for mapping of motor strip and visual/
Batch reformations
auditory stimuli
Interactive Vascular Imaging (IVI)
•A
 utomatic assessment of Blood Volume, Blood Flow, Mean
Comparison Mode
Transit Time and Time
Multi-image ROI to Peak
SCIC & PURE Surface coil intensity correction (SCIC) and • Metabolite maps (needs 2D CSI package)
phase array uniformity correction (PURE)
• F uncTool Fusion for overlay of multiple images acquired
MR Pasting Combines a series of MR images acquired Spectroscopy baseline correction
in multiple stations of the body into • BrainStat GVF
a single image. Pasting 1.1 provides
the convenience of viewing a single • Archive or network generated report
image rather than several images. The • Generate single click DICOM SR report
applications include pasting of multiple
• Generate report in database
images of sagittal spine imaging and
carotid to abdominal aorta and peripheral • Compute and annotate
vascular imaging.
FuncTool also plays critical role in display and visualization of the
data acquired with optional advanced applications such as
• Starmap R2*
• Diffusion Tensor Imaging
• DWI
• BOLD data acquired with GRE-EPI
• FiberTrack

14
ScanTools
GE ScanTools have evolved in to a comprehensive suite of pulse LAVA
sequences and applications. LAVA delivers excellent spatial and temporal resolution with
large volume slice coverage in significantly shorter total scan
Spin Echo Pulse sequences times than those possible with conventional 3D gradient echo
techniques. LAVA provides outstanding Liver breath-held imaging
Spin Echo and Fast Spin Echo sequences have been the mainstay
without compromising in-plane spatial resolution.
in MR imaging due to their robust signal and well understood
contrast behavior. The XL version of the FSE is designed to enable LAVA-XV
an extended train of echoes to reduce the T2 blurring and the fast LAVA-XV utilizes auto-calibrating ARC parallel imaging technique
recovery FSE helps in reducing TR without compromising the T2 that needs no coil sensitivity maps. It is less sensitive to motion
weighting. artifacts compared to the conventional LAVA based on ASSET.
• 2D Spin Echo 2D and 3D MERGE
• 2D FSE-XL Multiple Echo Recombined Gradient Echo (MERGE) uses multiple
echoes to generate high-resolution images of the C-spine with
• 2D SSFSE (single shot)
excellent gray-white matter differentiation. By combining early
• 2D SSFSE IR echoes with high SNR and late echoes with improved contrast,
• 2D FRFSE-XL (Fast Recovery version) the result is improved cord contrast within the spinal column.

Single-Shot Fast-Spin Echo 2D/3D TOF

An ultra-fast technique that permits complete image acquisition 2D Gated TOF Imaging, 3D TOF Imaging and enhanced 3D TOF
following a single RF excitation. It can acquire slices in less than one Imaging are based on conventional gradient echo imaging
second, making it an excellent complement to T2-weighted brain, techniques. TOF imaging techniques rely primarily on flow-related
abdominal imaging and MRCP studies. enhancements to distinguish the moving spins from the stationary
spins.
3D FRFSE
Coupled with respiratory gating, this 3D FSE sequence 2D/3D Phase contrast
uses a novel “recovery” pulse at the end of each echo train These techniques demonstrate flow velocities and directional
to recapture signal for the next repetition. These features properties in vessels and other moving fluids such as cerebral
result in high-resolution three-dimensional images for MR spinal fluid and aortic flow.
cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) studies.
Inversion Recovery Pulse sequences
Gradient Echo Pulse sequences This is an SE sequence with preparatory 180° pulse to flip the net
The main advantage of GRE sequences is its shorter TR enabled magnetization vector by 180° to null the signal from a particular
by lower flip angles and gradient inversions instead of 180° RF entity, very often water. The variants of the IR available with our
pulses. Consequently, the GRE sequences are better suited ScanTools are:
to a variety of 3D volumetric applications including ce-MRA • 2D T1 FLAIR (Fluid Attenuated IR)
techniques.
• 2D T2 FLAIR (Fluid Attenuated IR)
SIGNA Creator system’s innovative imaging chain and high fidelity
• STIR – Short TI Inversion Recovery
gradients offer short TRs and TEs.
•D
 ouble IR and Triple IR for black blood imaging in assessment of
• 2D GRE/SPGR
carotid plaques cardiac imaging
• 2D FGRE/FSPGR
• 3D GRE/SPGR
Echo Planar sequences
With echo-planar imaging, a single echo train is employed to
• 3D FGRE/FSPGR
collect data from all lines of k-space during one TR. In the single
• ECG gated FGRE shot version, all the k-space lines are collected in a single TR and
• ECG gated Fast SPGR in case of the multi-shot EPI it is collected over multiple TRs. EPI is
an excellent choice for diffusion weighted imaging.
• IR-prepared 3D-GRE with ARC parallel imaging for Brain Volume
imaging BRAVO SIGNA Creator offers comprehensive EPI techniques with short
echo spacing:
3D Dual Echo
• EPI SE
With improvements in parallel imaging and RF coil arrays, volumetric
imaging in body is becoming a standard of care. The 2D/3D Dual • EPI GRE
Echo sequence produces in-phase and out-of-phase images in • EPI Diffusion Weighted
a single breath-hold. As a result, the high-resolution images are
in perfect alignment helping to simplify the diagnostic process. In • EPI FLAIR (single shot version helps in DWI)
addition, the excellent SNR of the 3D acquisition permits the thinner
slices than are traditionally available using 2D techniques.

15
ART Acoustic Reduction Technology Diffusion Weighted EPI
Single Shot FLAIR EPI and Single Shot, diffusion-weighted EPI with
This feature Reduces modifies pulse sequences without
b-values up to 7,000 s/mm2 is standard with SIGNA Creator that is
compromising the image quality to reduce the acoustic noise to
based on
improve the patient comfort.
• Automatic isotropic diffusion-weighted image generation
Other ScanTools applications • Multi-NEX capability
ScanTools also includes many advanced applications such as • Online image processing
real-time imaging, BOLD acquisitions and multistation vascular
imaging. • ADC maps

3D Cube Flow Analysis:

3D Cube has potential to replace several slice-by-slice, plane- Allows Flow Quantification in vasculature such as carotid artery.
after-plane 2D FSE acquisitions with a single 3D volume scan, i-Drive Pro real-time imaging
providing you with T1, T2, T2 FLAIR or PD sequences. You can i-drive Pro brings real-time interactive imaging to the MR system
easily reformat sub-millimeter isotropic volume data from a for imaging of organs such as heart, GI tract and spine. It allows
single acquisition into any plane without gaps, and with the same the user to change scan parameters easily, including during
resolution as the original plane. Our self-calibrating ARC parallel scanning, to evaluate the results immediately.
imaging helps eliminate artifacts while accelerating the image
acquisition. SPECIAL - Spectral Inversion at Lipids
Spectral Inversion at Lipids (SPECIAL) uses an inversion pulse
BOLD fMRI analysis on FuncTool transmitted at the frequency of fat and timed to the null point of
Correlation Coefficient algorithm is used to analyze an image fat. This results in higher signal produced from protons bound
set acquired with the EPI. Neuronal activity of either motor or in water and a decreased signal from nuclei precessing at the
cognitive functions can be mapped by fMRI through changes in frequency of fat. The flip angle of the inversion pulse is optimized
signal intensity arising from bulk magnetic susceptibility-induced based on the prescribed TI, TR, and flip angle. SPECIAL is available
relaxation changes resulting from variations in blood flow and with 3D FRGE and 3D Fast TOF sequences.
oxygenation. A BOLD image acquisition is typically a single shot,
multiphase, GRE-EPI with high number of phases. Within each SmartPrep
series, you can acquire multiple phases and multiple slices. SmartPrep uses a special tracking pulse sequence to monitor the
MR signal through a user-prescribed volume to detect the arrival
The pre-selected images from the series can be loaded in
of an injected contrast bolus and to trigger the acquisition, for
to FuncTool to automatically compute parametric images.
optimum contrast enhancement. It does so by integrating the
Magnification factor, WW/WL, and threshold functions are
following:
available for post processing.
• Efficient multi-station scouting capabilities
BrainSTAT GVF
The BrainSTAT post processing application automatically • Ultra flexible multi station Graphic Rx for precise multi-station
generates parametric maps for neuro Blood Flow, Blood Volume. RF tuning with
Mean Transit Time, and Time to Peak signal intensity. A Gamma pre-scan ahead
Variate fitting algorithm is used to automatically estimate the • Automated triggering, table motion and coil switching
arterial input function, then calculate the values for the four Application of robust
parametric maps. The maps may be saved in DICOM format fat-suppression with SPECIAL (Spectral Inversion at Lipid)
and fused with high resolution anatomic datasets for improved
• The result is acquisition techniques that deliver consistently
visualization of tissue and anatomy.
high-resolution results by making routine use of elliptic-centric
encoding and ZIP reconstruction to create images as large as
1024x1024 pixels

16
SmartStep Fluoro-Triggered MRA
The SmartStep adds programmable stepping capability to Fluoro-Triggered MRA images the selected anatomy continuously,
SmartPrep to plan and optimize your contrast enhancements. enabling the user to manually trigger each acquisition as soon as
the MR-operator is satisfied with the level of vessel enhancement.
TRICKS This switch-over occurs almost instantly, in less than one second.
Time Resolved Imaging of Contrast KineticS (TRICKS) technology
is designed to use intricate temporal sampling with complex 2D FIESTA CINE
data recombination to accelerate the temporal resolution of 3D Fast Imaging Employing STeady state Acquisitions is a fully
dynamic imaging – without compromising spatial resolution. balanced steady-state coherent imaging pulse sequence that
Easy to set up, TRICKS rapidly generates time-resolved 3D images has been designed to produce high SNR images at very short TR.
of blood vessels to help meet the challenge of capturing peak The pulse sequence uses fully balanced gradients to re-phase
arterial phases. With TRICKS, the different vascular phases can be the transverse magnetization at the end of each TR interval.
extracted quickly after image acquisition. This sequence accentuates the contrast of anatomy with high
T2/T1 ratios (such as the cardiac blood pool), while suppressing
3D FIESTA-C the signal from tissues with low T2/T1 ratios (such as muscle
This phase-cycled FIESTA reduces sensitivity to susceptibilities and myocardium). This enhances the contrast between the
that may be encountered when imaging in the posterior fossa. myocardium and the blood pool.
It provides exquisite contrast that is equated for visualization of
the internal auditory canal. It is also well-suited for T2 imaging VCG Gating
through the cervical spine. Allows more robust trigger detection.
3D FIESTA IVI
3D FIESTA (Fast Imaging Employing Steady-state Acquisition is IVI is an interactive user interface that allows operators to remove
a technique that uses an extremely short repetition time (TR) background from MR angiography images for angiographic and
between RF pulses such that high-resolution 3D volume images maximum intensity (MIP) projections in multiple scan planes.
can be acquired rapidly. The 3D FIESTA technique is especially
useful for the rapid acquisition of high-spatial-resolution images Connect Pro
of static structures such as cochlea, internal auditory canal, or ConnectPro software enables the DICOM worklist server class
joints. for the operator-console, making it possible for the console to
query your HIS/RIS by name, modality, or scheduled date, and
3D COSMIC to download patient demographics directly to the scanner.
Coherent Oscillatory State Acquisition for the manipulation of This may require separate gateway hardware to connect non
imaging contrast is a 3D sequence for imaging of axial c-spine. DICOM-compatible HIS/RIS systems to the MR system.
COSMIC uses modified fast GRE pulse sequence with steady-state
free precession segmented multi-shot centric k-space acquisition. Performed Procedure Step
This improves the CNR and SNR of c-spine tissue including the Performed Procedure Step (PPS) is an important automated
spinal cord, vertebral disks, nerve root canal and contrast between connectivity capability and a key step towards a film-less
CSF and nerve roots. and paperless environment. In conjunction with the GE PACS
broker, it automatically notifies the HIS/RIS and PACS systems of
2D FatSat FIESTA procedure status, which then closes the loop on the information
Fast Imaging Employing STeady-state Acquisition (FIESTA) is gathered from patient arrival through billing. This results in
designed to produce high SNR images extremely rapidly and improved patient care and enhanced productivity.
with excellent contrast between tissues. The contrast relies on a
steady state for the transverse magnetization, which builds as QuickSTEP
a series of radio frequency pulses and special gradient pulses QuickSTEP automatically prescribes, acquires, and combines
are repeated after an extremely short repetition time, TR. FIESTA images from multiple stations for fast acquisition and exam
accentuates the signal from tissues that have a long T2 and short completion. To complete the entire exam in as little as 6
T1. FIESTA has the capability to suppress the signal from fat, minutes, the system will automatically acquire mask datasets
especially to create more contrast between the vasculature and from multiple stations without any user intervention. Secondary
surrounding tissues. images are then acquired at the same independent table
positions. The system will automatically subtract the mask
images from the secondary dataset and combine the resulting
images from the multiple stations into one series. The user
needs only to complete a quick review of the data prior to
insertion of images into the database.

17
Neuro Imaging†
The following NEURO applications are standard with the SIGNA SWAN 2.0
Creator ScanTools. SWAN phase imaging based on complex coil combine reconstruction
• Ready Brain IDEAL
• Diffusion Weighted EPI This sequence and reconstruction package acquires multiple
echoes at different echo times with a fast spin echo readout to
• EPI 2D GRE for BOLD acquisitions
create water-only, fat-only, in-phase and out-of-phase images.
• EPI FLAIR IDEAL is designed for imaging those difficult regions such as
• 2D STIR the neck and spine where inhomogeneous magnetic fields yield
failures with traditional fat saturation techniques.
• 3D Cube
Diffusion Tensor Imaging with Fiber Tracking
• 3D FIESTA
This package expands the EPI capability to include diffusion tensor
• 3D FIESTA C imaging, a technique that acquires diffusion information in up
• 3D COSMIC to 150 different diffusion directions. It generates image contrast
based on the degree of diffusion anisotropy in cerebral tissues
• 2D/3D MERGE such as white matter. FuncTool capabilities on the console
• MR Pasting (included with ScanTools) create Fractional Anisotropy (FA), Apparent
Diffusion Weighted (ADC) and T2-Weighted TRACE maps.
• 2D/3D TOF
The FiberTrak post-processing utility generates eigen-vector
• 2D/3D Phase Contrast Angio
information from the diffusion tensor acquisition and
• Magnetization Transfer Contrast processing. Using a robust and efficient seeding process, three-
• T1-SE MEMP dimensional renderings of the diffusion along white matter tracts
are generated.
• T1 FLAIR
PROBE PRESS single voxel spectroscopy
• T2 FLAIR PROBE PRESS single-voxel spectroscopy allows you to
• T1/T2 FSE non-invasively evaluate the relative concentrations of in-vivo
metabolites and lets you acquire and display volume-localized,
Optional Advanced Neuro applications water-suppressed H1 spectra in single voxel mode. The package
includes automated recon, cquisition set-up and graphic
PROPELLER 3.0
prescription of spectroscopic volumes. The standard sequence
PROPELLER 3.0 is based on fast spin echo (FSE) and its name is
consists of three slice-selective RF pulses with crusher gradients.
derived from its unique k-space acquisition, in which data are
The PRESS sequence makes use of reduced flip angles to
acquired in radial “blades” that rotate similar to the propeller
decrease TE time of the sequence. The key advantage of PRESS
on an airplane. Since each blade passes through the center of
(over STEAM) is that it provides up to twice the SNR and hence
k-space, PROPELLER has low sensitivity to motion artifacts and
decreased exam time or voxel size. It is the sequence of choice for
high contrast-to-noise properties. This makes it well-suited
all Hydrogen single voxel spectroscopy data acquisitions with TE
for producing high-resolution image quality even under
values ≥ 35 ms.
challenging circumstances. Available in all-imaging planes,
PROPELLER offers motion-insensitive T2, T2 FLAIR, T1 FLAIR, and PROBE – 2D CSI / 3D CSI
PD contrasts in all anatomies. It is available in all imaging planes This extends the PROBE-PRESS capabilities with simultaneous
and all anatomies - with special relevance in brain, abdomen and multi-voxel in-plane acquisitions. Post-processing, including the
MSK. generation of metabolite maps is automatically generated with
FuncTool Performance package.
Diffusion-weighted PROPELLER is an alternative to the conventional
echoplanar imaging, to produce high quality images in the skull Express Spine Annotation
base even in the presence of dental work, craniotomies or other Enables semi-automatic annotation of vertebral bodies on saggital
abnormalities that cause a magnetic field disturbance. T2W spine images.

SWAN
SWAN lets you visualize and delineate small vessels microbleeds,
large vascular structures, and iron or calcium deposits in
the brain. SWAN captures a broad spectrum of contrast
characteristics specific to a wide range of tissue components
using a multi-TE acquisition technique. The multi-TE approach is
inherently less affected by chemical shift, leading to clear images.

† Some product features may not be available in all countries

18
eDWI 3D ASL (Arterial Spin labeling)
The enhanced Diffusion Weighted Imaging technique has been 3D ASL utilizes water in arterial blood as an endogenous contrast
designed to provide high signal-to-noise-ratio diffusion images of medium to help visualize tissue perfusion and provide quantitative
the liver and brain with short acquisition time Its multi-B feature is assessment of cerebral blood flow (CBF) in ml/100 g/min. 3D ASL
designed to provide measurement of apparent diffusion coefficient deploys stocked spiral FSE readout with modulated fiip angle to
(ADC) map with reduced effect of perfusion. In addition. “3 in acquire 3D volumetric data with increased SNR and less image
1” technique applies diffusion weighting to all three grodients distortion compared to conventional 2D EPI-bosed ASL techniques.
simultaneously, helping Improve sensitivity. Built in tetrahedral A pulsed continuous labeling is applied to Iobel arteriat blood
feature applies four different diffusion weighing combinations of close to the imaging volume thus improving conspicuity of flowing
x. y, and z gradients simultaneously to acquire isotropic diffusion blood. Selective. interwoven pulses ore then used to saturate ond
weighted images with high signal to noise ratio and shorter TE. Its invert the imaging volume, in order to achieve better background
smart NEX feature significantly reduces the acquisition time. An suppression, and reduce sensitivity to motion. The 3D volume con
inversion recovery is deployed to provide robust fat suppression. be reformatted to axial sagittal. coronal or oblique planes. The
Enhanced DWl package includes the acquisition sequence and quantitative color CBF mops can be generated and stored in
post-processing tools. DICOM format. 3D ASL helps generate robust, reproducible images
and perfusion maps with high SNR. reduced motion artifacts ond
less distortion in high magnetic susceptibility regions.

19
Body and Breast Imaging†
Following BODY applications are standard with the SIGNA Creator eDWI
ScanTools. The enhanced Diffusion Weighted Imaging technique has been
• LAVA designed to provide high signal-to-noise-ratio diffusion images
of the liver and brain with short-acquisition time. Its multiple
• 3D FRFSE-XL for high res MRCP b-value feature is designed to provide measurement of apparent
• 2D and 3D Dual Echo diffusion coefficient (ADC) map with reduced effect of perfusion.
In addition, “3 in 1” technique applies diffusion weighting to all
• 2D FatSat FIESTA
three gradients simultaneously, helping improve sensitivity. Built
• LAVA XV in tetrahedral feature applies four different diffusion weighing
• 3D Cube combinations of x, y, and z gradients simultaneously to acquire
isotropic diffusion weighted images with high signal to noise ratio
• 2D SSFSE and shorter TE. Its smart NEX feature significantly reduces the
• 2D FSE-XL acquisition time. Inversion recovery has been deployed to provide
robust fat suppression. Enhanced DWI package includes the
• 2D STIR/ FIRM
acquisition sequence and post-processing tools.
• T2 Fatsat FRFSE-XL
Propeller 3.0
• 2D FSPGR with Fatsat As extensively described in the Neuro section, Propeller 3.0 offers
• 3D FSPGR excellent applications in motion-sensitive abdominal imaging.
• Multi-phase variable delays IDEAL IQ
IDEAL IQ is a GE exclusive technique that builds upon the original
Optional Advanced Body and Breast IDEAL (Iterative Decomposition of water and fat with Echo
applications Asymmetry and Least-squares estimation) technique. IDEAL IQ
acquires multiple images of the anatomy at separate echo times
StarMap to calculate the phase differences and determine triglyceride
StarMap is a technique that acquires multiple echoes at different fat and water content per pixel. It exploits the resonance
TE times at each location resulting in images that represent frequency differences between triglyceride-fat and water,
different T2 and T2* weighting. measured as phase differences in multiple echoes, to resolve
Post-processing of the images is employed to generate gray scale the triglyceride-fat and water. It provides reliable and uniform
and color maps of the T2 or T2* signal decay across the echoes, water-fat separation in the presence of B0 field inhomogeneity
which can be useful in the assessment and improves the accuracy of waterfat separation by estimating
of the presence of iron. and correcting for T2* decay between echoes and by more
accurately modeling triglyceride fat’s spectral profile as multiple
VIBRANT
peaks rather than a single peak. The result is a triglyceride fat-
VIBRANT* (Volume Imaging for Breast AssessmeNT) permits
fraction map image that reflects the spatial distribution of relative
high definition bilateral imaging of both breasts in the time that
concentration of triglyceride fat within a voxel.
it normally takes to image a single breast. VIBRANT integrates
ASSET parallel imaging, bilateral shimming, and a patented LAVA Flex
fat-suppression technique developed specifically for breast LAVA Flex is a 3D FSPGR imaging technique that generates fat/
imaging. VIBRANT allows the slices to be acquired in either the water in-phase and out-of-phase echoes in a single acquisition.
sagittal or axial orientation. Up to 4 types of image contrasts may be achieved within
oneacquisition: in phase, out of phase, water only, fat only. The
VIBRANT Flex
water only contrast differs from a conventional fat suppressed
VIBRANT Flex uses a time-efficient dual-echo acquisition with 2D
image in that an inversion prep pulse is not applied for fat
ARC parallel imaging to produce water-only, fat-only, in-phase,
suppression. In fact, the fat information is removed leaving a
and out-of-phase images of the breast in a single scan. The Flex
water only image that may potentially be used in place of a LAVA
processing eliminates fat saturation failures to provide a clear
type image. LAVA Flex uses ARC. (Auto Calibrating Reconstruction
depiction of the underlying breast anatomy.
for Cartesian Sampling), a 2D self-calibratedparallel imaging
BREASE technique that allows for acceleration in both phase and slice
BREASE is a TE averaged PRESS spectroscopy acquisition help directions for supported coils.
characterize breast anatomy.

† Some product features may not be available in all countries

20
Orthopedic Imaging†
Following ortho applications are standard with the SIGNA Creator CartiGram T2 Map
ScanTools. Cartigram is a non-invasive technique for the visualization of
• 2D STIR subtle changes in the cartilage ultra-structure. It employes
special multi-echo T2 weighted technique to generate multiple
• 2D FSE-XL images per location. The acquired data is processed in FuncTool
• 2D GRE to produce the T2 color maps that better demonstrate subtle
changes compared to the conventional gray scale visualization.
• 3D FIESTA
• 3D Cube MAVRIC SL
MAVRIC SL is a novel pulse sequence based on 3D FSE with a
• 3D FSPGR/FGRE unique reduction-algorithm designed to image in the presence of
• FATSAT MR conditional implants. MAVRIC SL helps reduce artifacts caused
by metal in both in-plane and through-plane dimensions. This
Optional Advanced Ortho applications helps in imaging of the soft and bone tissue adjacent to metal
instrumentation.
Propeller 3.0
As extensively described in the Neuro section, Propeller 3.0 offers
excellent applications in motion-sensitive imaging of joints.
IDEAL
Areas such as the foot/ankle, shoulder, and off-isocenter wrist make
fat saturation a challenge. With IDEAL, water, fat, in-phase, and out-
of-phase images can be generated even in the presence of large
static field variations. This sequence can produce consistent and
reliable images in challenging anatomical areas.

† Some product features may not be available in all countries

21
Cardiac and Vascular Imaging†
The following Cardiac applications are standard with the SIGNA Inhance Inflow IR non-contrast MRA
Creator ScanTools. The high-SNR, bright-blood behavior of the steady-state
• VCG Gating sequences, such as FIESTA is well known. The Inhance IFIR further
enhances this phenomenon by applying a selective inversion
• VCG Gated GRE and Fast SPGR pulse over the region of interest to invert arterial, venous and
• Double and Triple IR static tissue, and then, at the null point of the venous blood,
applying an excitation pulse to generate strong arterial signal.
• Fast Cine
The other technologies used in this application are – ASSET
• iDRIVE Pro realtime imaging
parallel imaging, SPECIAL spectral fat saturation and respiratory
• SmartPrep for vascular runoffs gating.
• SmartStep for vascular runoffs Inhance 3D DeltaFlow non-contrast MRA
• Fluro-Trigerred MRA Inhance 3D DeltaFlow, based on 3D FSE, has been specially
designed for peripheral arterial imaging.
• TRICKS
The cardiac-gated 3D FSE acquires two echoes - one in diastole
• 2D FIESTA Cine and the other in systole. The slow arterial flow during diastole
• MR Pasting results in bright arteries in the
diastolic-images while faster arterial flow during systole results
• 2D/3D Phase contrast Angio
in darker arteries in the systolic- images. Subtraction of the
• 2D/3D TOF two provides arterial-only images with excellent suppression of
• 3D Fast TOF with GRE/SPGR for ce-MRA venous-flow and the background signal.
Interleaved acquisition and ASSET parallel imaging with optimized
Optional Advanced Cardio-vascular k-space trajectory helps respectively reduce motion miss-
registration and improve vessel visualization. In addition, the
applications use of partial-Fourier and coronal plane acquisition allows for
Inhance 3D Velocity non-contrast MRA considerably reduced scan time.
This technique, based on 3D Phase Contrast, is specially designed
iDrive Pro Plus
for neuro and renal arteries. The role of phase contrast MRA is well
iDRIVE Pro Plus expands the capabilities of standard iDrive Pro
established in visualization of complex, multi-directional flow in
with:
brain as well as renal arteries. The Inhance 3D Velocity takes this
technique few steps ahead by • Geometric changes to image plane location, obliquity, rotation,
center FOV and FOV size
• 3D Volumetric acquisition with ASSET parallel imaging
• Contrast parameters such as spatial pre-saturation on/off,
• Improved background suppression and Respiratory trigger to
special sat pulses, flow comp and RF spoiling
enable abdominal applications
• Application of a non-selective IR pulse
• Respiratory trigger to enable abdominal applications
• Swapping phase and frequency
Inhance 2D Inflow non-contrast MRA
This technique is based on 2D TOF, which is known for its speed It starts with an intuitive point-and-click user interface and live,
and simplicity while imaging the unidirectional blood flow such as on-image navigation icons. It continues with click-of-the-mouse
in carotids, popliteal and femoral. image book-marking and a suite of localization and drawing
tools, and includes capabilities from 10-level undo/redo,
The Inhance 2D Inflow technique further improves the effectiveness built-in time, autoNEX and click-of-the-mouse display/review/
of 2D TOF by employing: save, all to streamline even the most complex exams and
• Peripheral Gating manipulations.
• Centric k-space acquisition to match peak systolic signal
• Dummy RF for saturating diastolic signal
• More views/segment and
• ASSET parallel imaging

† Some product features may not be available in all countries

22
3D FatSat FIESTA
3D FatSat FIESTA is software designed for imaging of the coronary
arteries. The software acquires 3D images using FIESTA (Fast
Imaging Employing STeady-state Acquisition). Fat suppression
is applied to accentuate the coronary arteries. The use of VAST
(Variable Sampling in Time) technology greatly shortens
breath-holding requirements or allows for higher spatial
resolution.

FGRE Time Course

The FGRE Time Course PSD is a fast gradient-echo
sequence optimized for time-course studies. FGRE TC utilizes
single-echo acquisition to help reduce sensitivity to echo
mis-alignment or system calibrations variations. ASSET parallel
imaging and shortened RF pulse design are incorporated to help
improve temporal resolution and reduce motion related artifacts.
In addition to selective notch pulse, it also supports non-selective
saturation pulse for excellent background suppression and
multi-plane imaging capability.
StarMap
StarMap is a technique that acquires multiple echoes at different
TE times at each location resulting in images that represent
different T2 and T2* weighting. Post-processing of the images
is employed to generate gray scale and color maps of the T2 or
T2* signal decay across the echoes, which can be useful in the
assessment of the presence of iron.
2D/3D Myocardial Delayed Enhancement (MDE)
Determine myocardial tissue viability simply and reliably.
Performed in a single breath-hold, 2D/3D Myocardial Delayed
Enhancement (MDE) provides fast, simple, reliable assessment of
myocardial tissue viability or fibrosis by improving the
contrast-to-noise ratio between infarcted and normal
myocardium.

Cardiac Tagging
This application is used for the visualization of contractile
function. It combines cardiac-gated FastCINE gradientrecalled
echo with spatial SAT pulses applied throughout the FOV. Using
the operator’s choice of diagonal stripes or a grid pattern, tagging
is applied once per R-R interval, immediately following the R-wave
ECG trigger, just before the start of data acquisition.

23
Pediatric† Imaging‡
There have been many advances in MRI in the recent past that Moreover, following optional clinical applications, described
have led to significant increase in the referrals for pediatric extensively in previous sections, also go a long way in ensuring
imaging. The most notable design aspects of the SIGNA Creator in productivity and diagnostic confidence.
that context are:
• Propeller 3.0 for motion-insensitive applications
• High homogeneity magnet for no-compromise large FOV exams
• IDEAL technique for achieving 4-contrasts in a single acquisition
• Well lit and well-ventilated short inner bore with flared openings
• Diffusion Tensor and Fiber Tracking for applications in epilepsy
• ART – Acoustic Noise Reduction Technology and other congenital conditions
• Low RF amplifier power only 10 kW ensures that the SAR limits • 2D/3D Neuro spectroscopy
are not exceeded
• 3D Cube for faster volumetric imaging
• Wide selection of surface coils such as Quad T/R coil with large
• Inhance suite of applications for non-contrast vascular studies
inner bore, 4ch Flex coils and 5” and 3” Circular coils
• SWAN for better sensitivity towards micro-bleeds.
• ASSET and ARC parallel imaging
• Cartigram for non-invasive T2 mapping of the cartilage and
• Half NEX and Half Fourier
other tissues.
• Variety of 3D techniques

† MR Scanning has not been established as safe for imaging fetuses or infants. Carefully compare the benefits of MR versus alternative procedures
before scanning to control risk to the patient. A physician needs to decide to scan pregnant or infant patients

‡ Some product features may not be available in all countries

24
Site Planning and power consumption
Accessory Package Weight of the key system components
The scanner comes with the Unified coil phantom set, customer
diagnostic software, operator manuals, and patient log books. Magnet with enclosures and cryogen 5532 kg

InSite* Remote Diagnostics Electronics Cabinet 900 kg

Remote service and applications support including magnet Patient Table (Fixed) 136 kg
monitoring, is readily available. This capability also allows
downloading of applications software including the trial software Electrical Power Supply
available to users through our eFlex program.
Recommended 3-phase Grounded WYE with Neutral
Warranty Configuration and Ground (5 wire system).
The published Company warranty in effect on the date of
shipment shall apply. The Company reserves the right to make Alternate Configuration 3 phase DELTA with Ground
changes. (4 wire). Recommend corner
Grounded Delta configuration.
Regulatory Compliance: Frequency 50 ± 3.0Hz or 60 ± 3.0 Hz (Local
The SIGNA Creator 1.5T MR System is a CE-complaint device
Voltage adoption may be required)
that satisfies Electro-Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) and Electro-
Magnetic Interface (EMI) regulations, pursuant to IEC-60601. Laser Voltage 480/415/400/380/208/200 Vrms
alignment devices contained within this product are appropriately
labeled according to the requirements of the Center for Devices Temperature and Humidity
and Radiological Health.
Temperature in Humidity in percent
Fringe Field degrees Celsius
Magnet Room 15° – 21° C 30 to 60
Axial Radial
Control Room 15° – 32° C 30 to 75
0.5 mT 4.00 m 2.5 m
0.1 mT 5.70 m 3.4 m Equipment Room 15° – 28° C 30 to 75

For more details, please contact GE representative or refer to the

GE pre-install manual.

25
Power management technology DICOM Compliance
Due to multiple power supplies and amplifiers employed in a Images generated by the SIGNA Creator scanner adhere to the
modern day MRI, power surges may occur. SIGNA Creator offers 2004 version of the DICOM conformance standard.
robust power management technology to reduce the peak Objects created by the system include:
instantaneous power demand.
• MR images
Power consumption • Secondary-capture images, both grayscale and color
50 Hz 60 Hz • Grayscale Softcopy Presentation State (GSPS)
Average Power 13.3 kW 14.0 kW • Structured reports
Standby (no scan) 4.6 kW 5.0 kW • In addition to supporting MOD, CD-R and DVD-R for
Overnight sleep 2.8 kW 2.8 kW
mode DICOM interchange, the system also supports:

Peak Instantaneous 24 kW 27 kW • CT images

power < 5s • PET images
Continuous 17.2 kW 17.4 kW • RT structure set
sustained power
> 5s • GEMS PET raw information

Transactions supported as a Storage Class User (SCU) or Store

Cryocooler power consumption Class Provider (SCP) include:
• DICOM store with storage commit (SCU)
50 Hz 60 Hz
• DICOM store (SCU/SCP)
Cryo-cooler (Shield 6.5 kW 7.5 kW
cooler) • DICOM modality worklist (SCU)
• DICOM performed procedure step (SCU)
Minimum room dimensions • DICOM query retrieve (SCU/SCP)
With Equip Room No Equip Room • DICOM print – grayscale and color – (SCU)
Magnet Room 3.54m x 5.7m 3.54m x 5.7m • Basic application level confidentiality profile as a de-identifier
Control Console 1.52m x 2.13m 3.4m x 1.9m Finally, this system supports the following IHE Technical Profiles.
Room Scheduled workflow with the following options:
Electronics 2.7m x 2.5m • Patient-based worklist query
Equipment Room
• Broad worklist query
Total Area needed 31m2 27m2
excluding chillers • Assisted-acquisition protocol setting
• Patient information reconciliation
• Simple image and numeric report
• Consistent presentation of images

Note: SIGNA Creator is the official product name.

26
About GE Healthcare
GE Healthcare provides transformational medical technologies
and services to meet the demand for increased access,
enhanced quality and more affordable healthcare around the
world. GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter - great people
and technologies taking on tough challenges. From medical
imaging, software & IT, patient monitoring and diagnostics to
drug discovery, biopharmaceutical manufacturing technologies
and performance improvement solutions, GE Healthcare helps
medical professionals deliver great healthcare to their patients.

GE Healthcare
3000 North Grandview Blvd.
Waukesha, WI 53188
U.S.A.

©2014 General Electric Company – All rights reserved.

General Electric Company reserves the right to make changes in specifications and
features shown herein, or discontinue the product described at any time without no-
tice or obligation. Contact your GE Representative for the most current information.

GE and GE Monogram are trademarks of General Electric Company.

*Trademarks of the General Electric Company.

GE Healthcare, a division of General Electric Company.

www.gehealthcare.com DOC1595930