Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Discusses Next-Generation MRI Capabilities on FF TV

In a new episode of FF TV — the RuTube channel of the V.P. Filatov Foundation, experts discussed the expanding capabilities of magnetic resonance imaging and technological advances in MRI scanners. Episode topic: “What You Need to Know About Magnetic Resonance Imaging,” watch via link.

Featured in the studio is Sergey Konstantinovich Ternovoy, Head of the Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Radiation Therapy at Sechenov University, USSR State Prize Laureate, and Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

Academician Ternovoy noted that the first MRI scanners weighed 120 tons, whereas modern systems have become considerably lighter and more compact. The scientist outlined specific diagnostic nuances in imaging the brain, heart, intervertebral discs, and oncological processes, while highlighting lesser-known rules for undergoing scans.

The expert clarified: MRI scans are entirely safe for individuals with dental implants or artificial hip and knee joints. These implants are made from surgical-grade stainless steel; while they do not interfere with the imaging procedure itself, they make the immediate surrounding area “invisible” on scans. In contrast, certain aesthetic interventions (subcutaneous fillers, cosmetic threads) can occasionally present contraindications.

During the early development of magnetic resonance imaging, Ternovoy noted, examining patients with claustrophobia was a major challenge. At that time, approximately 8% of patients were unable to tolerate prolonged confinement in the scanner bore. Today, not only has the number of such patients declined, but technical solutions are also available:

— Whole-body scans are now entirely feasible. Even for detecting oncological spread, there are specialized protocols, such as whole-body diffusion-weighted imaging. Specialized flexible coils can be wrapped snugly around the patient like a blanket. Scanners are evolving rapidly, with their weight decreasing; today, the most powerful magnet weighs only 6 tons. That is remarkably lightweight. The main remaining challenge is scan duration while remaining inside an enclosed space. There is a costly yet vital solution — a select few specialized centers possess scanners compatible with general anesthesia during the procedure. These systems are exceptionally expensive because they must minimize magnetic components, being engineered from non-magnetic alloys, — the Academician explained.

In 1983, Sergey Konstantinovich Ternovoy was part of the pioneering scientific team that developed the first Soviet magnetic resonance imaging scanners. 

Currently, MRI scanners are assembled in Russia, predominantly low-field systems (field strength below 0.5 T). To secure technological sovereignty in domestic healthcare, researchers are actively working toward commencing serial production of Russian-made 1.5 T high-field scanners.