Siemens Healthineers has released three new angiography systems designed to support liver cancer embolization procedures. The company showed the systems at the European Congress of Radiology, highlighting their AI capabilities for better imaging and workflow.
The new platforms include the Artis genio, Artis icono.explore, and Artis icono.vision angiography systems. Each system uses artificial intelligence to help doctors plan and perform complex tumor treatments with greater precision.
Why embolization matters for cancer treatment
Tumor embolization is a key cancer treatment that works by blocking blood flow to tumors or delivering drugs directly to tumor-feeding vessels. This approach offers several advantages:
- Reduces tumor size and related symptoms
- Enables highly targeted therapy
- Causes fewer side effects than chemotherapy
- Uses minimally invasive techniques
The procedure requires precise catheter navigation and real-time imaging guidance. However, these treatments are becoming more challenging as patient numbers grow while medical staff remains limited.
AI fixes motion problems in imaging
The new Artis systems include Syngo DynaCT MORE software, which automatically corrects motion artifacts in 3D imaging. Three-dimensional cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides detailed views of anatomy, but chest and abdomen imaging often suffers from motion caused by:
- Breathing
- Heartbeat
- Pulsating blood vessels
The AI software uses iterative image reconstruction to realign vessels and medical devices without losing anatomical detail. This can save imaging datasets that would otherwise be unusable, potentially reducing repeat scans.
Smart planning software guides procedures
Siemens has developed myEmbolization Guide, an AI-based planning tool trained for specific organ workflows. Doctors can choose from:
- Liver applications
- Prostate treatments
- General flexible procedures
For liver procedures, the software provides precise 3D tumor mapping and clearly marks treatment zones. It creates detailed vascular maps that help doctors distinguish between feeder vessels and non-feeder vessels, making catheter navigation more accurate during procedures.
Better image quality with less noise
The Optiq AI imaging chain reduces noise in real-time during X-ray imaging. The system minimizes interference from X-ray scatter and electronic systems while maintaining the same radiation dose. This results in clearer images across multiple 2D imaging modes.
The systems also include an intuitive user interface that improves coordination between control and examination rooms, making procedures more efficient overall.
Industry experts see value in standardization
“Interventional radiology demands precision, and our new Artis portfolio represents a leap toward truly personalized therapy for cancer patients,” said Carsten Bertram, Head of Advanced Therapies at Siemens Healthineers. “With artificial intelligence as a key enabler, we aim to empower healthcare professionals to treat more patients more effectively.”
Prof. Dr. med. Frank K. Wacker, President of the German Society for Interventional Radiology and Minimally Invasive Therapy (DeGIR), noted that workflow guidance and standardization improve training and reduce errors, leading to more reliable patient care.