TORONTO and NEWMARKET, Ontario– Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) and Southlake Health announced the installation of the Philips Ambition X MR with BlueSeal technology, the first high-performance, helium-free 1.5T MRI scanner, to expand diagnostic imaging capabilities and meet growing patient demand. The new system is expected to enhance workflow efficiency, increase patient throughput, and support the launch of new imaging programs in prostate, rectal, breast, and cardiac care.
Southlake Health, which serves one of Canada’s fastest-growing and aging populations, completed more than 20,700 MRI scans last year. With the new technology, the hospital has already reduced scan times and improved patient comfort, helping its teams provide faster and more confident diagnoses.
“Southlake serves some of the fastest growing and aging communities in Canada, and we are excited to introduce the new Philips Ambition X MR,” said Lisa Thain, M.D., Staff Radiologist and Clinical Director of MRI at Southlake Health. “This technology provides a more comfortable experience for patients, while also reducing scan times and improving image quality. Our teams will be able to deliver faster, more accurate diagnoses, which is a win for everyone.”
The Philips Ambition X MR combines BlueSeal technology with advanced AI features, including SmartSpeed and Compressed SENSE acceleration, enabling exams up to three times faster while maintaining high image quality. Its MR Smart Workflow allows technologists to focus more on patients while simplifying the imaging process. The scanner also features a 70 cm bore, improving patient comfort and reducing claustrophobia.
Philips remains the only provider of helium-free MRI systems in Canada, addressing both environmental and operational concerns. To date, more than 2,000 BlueSeal systems installed worldwide have saved approximately 5 million liters of helium, a critical and non-renewable resource.
“Southlake Health’s desire to embrace the latest medical advancements underscores its century-long commitment to delivering unmatched care,” said Darran Fischer, Managing Director of Philips Canada. “This collaboration reflects our shared dedication to keeping patients at the center of everything we do. Together, we aim to push the boundaries of diagnostic imaging, bringing improved access to care to the communities of Northern York Region and Southern Simcoe County.”
The installation of the new MRI system was made possible through philanthropic contributions and community support raised by the Southlake Health Foundation’s HERE is Where Cancer Meets its Match campaign.
