Magdeburg, August 6, 2026: PRESS RELEASE UKMD - : Gentler Imaging for Infants and Young Children Thanks to New Technology
Magdeburg University Medicine has officially inaugurated an innovative MRI system designed specifically for its youngest patients, together with Saxony-Anhalt's Minister of Science and Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Prof. Armin Willingmann. Tailored to the needs of infants and young children, the new technology delivers high-resolution imaging in a safe, child-friendly environment. Combined with more streamlined workflows and short transport distances, it provides ideal conditions for gentler and safe diagnostic examinations.
With the commissioning of the innovative neo315 pediatric MRI system, Magdeburg University Medicine now operates one of the world's first MRI systems developed specifically for newborns and infants. Following Halle University Medicine, Magdeburg becomes the second clinical site to implement this technology. The system was developed by Magdeburg-based medical technology company Neoscan Solutions.
"By investing in this new MRI system, Magdeburg University Medicine is making a clear commitment to modern, innovative, and future-oriented pediatric care. At the same time, we are strengthening our position as a center for excellence in both clinical medicine and research. This new technology enables gentler, faster, and more precise diagnostic imaging, significantly improving the quality of care for our youngest patients," said Prof. Dr. Hans-Jochen Heinze, Medical Director of the University Hospital in Magdeburg.
Minister of Science Prof. Willingmann added: "I am delighted that the University Hospital Magdeburg can now also benefit from Neoscan's state-of-the-art pediatric MRI system. This technology, developed here in Saxony-Anhalt, is an impressive example of what can be achieved right here in this federal state by combining scientific research, innovation, and entrepreneurial expertise. Innovations like this further strengthen Saxony-Anhalts a leading location for medical technology and academic medicine."
Greater Safety and Less Stress for Children and Their Families
Many medical conditions cannot be diagnosed reliably using ultrasound alone. At the same time, conventional MRI systems are primarily designed for adults and present particular challenges when imaging babies and young children. Longer examination times and, in some cases, the need for sedation can place considerable stress on both young patients and their families.
The new pediatric MRI system has been specifically designed to address the needs of the newborns and toddlers. Examinations take place in a familiar, child-centered environment that helps reduce stress while providing optimal conditions for safe and high-quality diagnostic imaging.
"The new MRI system for infants and young children significantly expands our diagnostic capabilities and strengthens our pediatric care. Particularly important are a geometry specifically optimized for infants and young children, as well as reduced acoustic noise.. This enables high-resolution imaging and may allow infants to be scanned after feeding without the need for sedation," explained Prof. Dr. Antje Redlich, Director of the University Children's University Hospital in Magdeburg.
Seamless Integration into Magdeburg University Medicine's Advanced Imaging Infrastructure
Another benefit of the new system is the reduced need for patient transport within the Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine. The pediatric MRI is being incorporated into the department's state-of-the-art imaging infrastructure, complementing its newly established MRI cluster.
Prof. Dr. Maciej Pech, Director of the Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine said, "Integrating the pediatric MRI into our new MRI cluster allows us to combine cutting-edge imaging technology with an environment specifically designed for children, creating ideal conditions for efficient, high-quality diagnostics . The familiar and child-friendly setting helps reduce stress for young patients while also providing greater reassurance and peace of mind for parents and families throughout the examination."
Innovation from Magdeburg for the Future of Pediatric Medicine
The neo315 pediatric MRI system exemplifies the successful collaboration between research, clinical medicine, and innovative industry in Saxony-Anhalt. Developed by Magdeburg-based medical technology company Neoscan Solutions, the technology aims to make MRI examinations for infants and young children safer, gentler, and more accessible.