Philips introduces patient-centric solution designed to help patients relax during MRI scans

-- Ambient Experience patient in-bore solution is designed to increase patient comfort and relaxation and may improve overall department efficiency

ANDOVER, Massachusetts, Nov. 28, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) today announced the launch of the Ambient Experience patient in-bore solution designed to reduce patient anxiety and movement during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations. The patient in-bore solution is the latest innovation in Philips' successful Ambient Experience portfolio, which integrates dynamic lighting, projection, sound, spatial design and workflow improvements to enable hospitals to create engaging, comfortable patient environments. To date, Philips has installed 750 Ambient Experience solutions globally.

MRI is one of the most important diagnostic tools in clinical practice. Research shows the narrowness of the bore, movement restrictions and noises generated by the scanner can prompt significant anxiety in patients[i]. To obtain the highest quality images, patients are required to remain still during the scanning process, which can last for approximately one hour. Remaining still under these conditions can prove challenging and stressful for many patients. Poor quality images resulting from too much movement often require rescans – leading to increased costs and inconvenience for both patients and clinicians. Many years of research and experience in the field have taught clinicians that certain sensory distractions can help settle patients' nerves, allowing them to better focus on remaining still.

"Regardless of how sophisticated and effective imaging solutions have become, most people facing some kind of diagnostic scan are often anxious and scared, simply because of the reason why they receive the scan," said Gene Saragnese, executive vice president and CEO of Philips Imaging Systems. "We have applied our strengths in combining our consumer, lighting and health technology expertise to create an overall better experience for patients during MRI scans."

From the moment a patient is moved into the scanner – the point at which people report the most anxiety – through the conclusion of the examination, the Philips solution surrounds patients with engaging visuals. Patients can also listen to music and other sounds through headphones. The soothing audio and visual elements can help patients to relax and hold still during their scan.