Context and Overall Objectives
The NextMRI project addresses the need for portable, low-cost MRI solutions, especially for settings where traditional MRI systems are impractical due to size, cost, and infrastructure demands. Collaborating with partners such as CSIC, PHYSMRI, and IISLAFE, the project aims to extend MRI access to remote, rural, and non-clinical environments. The project focuses on developing a low-field portable MRI scanner for extremity and brain imaging, making MRI accessible to a broader population.
Background
MRI is the gold standard for diagnosing neurological and musculoskeletal conditions but remains largely inaccessible outside major medical facilities. NextMRI is built upon advancements in the Histo-MRI and PR Scanner projects, which demonstrated the first-ever portable MRI imaging of a patient’s knee in outdoor and home settings. Notably, the scanner was also deployed during the 2022 Motorcycle Grand Prix in Valencia, where it successfully identified previously undetected conditions.
Project Goals
NextMRI’s goals include:
1. Expanding MRI technology to extremity and brain imaging.
2. Enhancing diagnostic capabilities through machine learning.
3. Improving system portability and usability.
4. Optimizing production costs.
5. Conducting clinical trials to validate performance.
6. Developing a sustainable commercialization model.
State of the Art
The NextMRI scanner offers significant improvements over traditional MRI systems, achieving adequate tissue contrast and spatial resolution for various diagnoses. The prototype has proven its effectiveness in clinical and non-clinical settings, including successful deployments in homes and outdoor environments. The scanner has been validated by professional radiologists at LA FE, who confirmed that its images provided enough detail to diagnose a range of conditions.
Methodology
The project follows three phases:
1. Prototype Design (2023-2025): Based on previous projects and stakeholder feedback.
2. Technical and Usability Validation (2025-2026): Lab and real-world testing.
3. Market Acceptance and Investor Engagement (2026): Developing the business plan for commercialization. A Human Factors Plan ensures that end-users are involved throughout product development, following MDR guidelines for CE marking.
Consortium
NextMRI's consortium includes CSIC (Spain), LUMC (Netherlands), IISLAFE (Spain), PHYSIOMRI (Spain), and Bergman Clinics (Germany), bringing together expertise in technical development, clinical validation, and business planning.
