Nawaloka Hospitals introduces South Asia’s 1st AI-powered MRI scanner

Nawaloka Hospitals PLC has marked another milestone with the introduction of South Asia’s first artificial intelligence (AI)-driven, Canon Vantage Orian MRI scanner. 

Officially commissioned on March 18, 2025, this state-of-the-art system reaffirms Nawaloka Hospitals’ reputation as a pioneer in medical innovation and advanced patient care. This strategic investment, coupled with the full upgrade of the radiology diagnostic system, amounts to US $ 4.5 million, reaffirming Nawaloka’s commitment to advancing healthcare through state-of-the-art medical technologies that enhance diagnostic precision and elevate patient care.

With the addition of this AI-powered MRI, Nawaloka’s radiology services are now on par with international standards, offering faster, clearer imaging for early disease detection and diagnosis.

The AI-powered MRI scanner integrates deep learning algorithms that significantly improve image clarity, speed and diagnostic precision. It enables early detection and accurate diagnosis across a wide range of complex medical conditions, leading to better treatment outcomes for patients. This advanced technology offers detailed imaging for:

• Neurological conditions such as brain tumours, stroke, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis
• Spinal disorders, including herniated discs and spinal cord tumours
• Musculoskeletal injuries like ligament tears and arthritis
• Cardiovascular diseases, including congenital heart defects and vascular abnormalities
• Abdominal and pelvic issues such as liver disease and gynaecological conditions
• Early detection of cancers, including prostate and breast cancer
• Paediatric imaging, ensuring safer, faster scans with minimal discomfort

Designed with patient comfort in mind, the AI-powered MRI features a spacious open-bore design that reduces claustrophobia and incorporates advanced noise reduction technology for a quieter, more relaxing experience.  The MRI machine enhanced with an Advanced Intelligent Clear-IQ Engine also ensures pristine images by eliminating external noise as simple as breathing, thus preventing the need to retake a sequence. The machine’s function is further amplified by its unique deep learning reconstruction mechanism known as PIQE (Precise Imaging Quality Engine), which increases the matrix size and pixel count to eliminate noise and deliver sharp anatomical images.
Additional patient benefits include:

• Sharper anatomical detail and crystal-clear images, ensuring highly accurate diagnostic results
• As the world’s only AI-powered MRI scanner that eliminates the need for contrast injections, this groundbreaking technology is a lifesaver for patients with kidney issues, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

“Our new AI-driven MRI scanner represents a bold step toward redefining diagnostic excellence,” said Nawaloka Hospitals PLC Chairman Dr. Jayantha Dharmadasa. 

Pix By Kithsiri De Mel