Radiation-Free Cardiac Catheterization Improves Care for Children

Separating magnetic resonance imaging from X-ray-guided catheterization can increase anesthesia exposure and disrupt family routines, while eliminating ionizing radiation remains an important clinical priority. A new program has launched to enable radiation-free, MRI-guided cardiac catheterization within a single, streamlined session.

Imricor Medical Systems, Inc. has introduced Imricor Cardiovascular as a new vertical to expand interventional magnetic resonance (iMR) beyond electrophysiology and ablation programs in the United States. Launched on August 3, 2026, the initiative follows recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearances for the NorthStar Mapping System and the Vision-MR Diagnostic Catheter. The offering gives hospitals a pathway to establish early leadership in radiation-free cardiac catheterization performed in an iMR lab. It is positioned to help programs adopt real-time MRI during catheter-based procedures.

The model consolidates care by replacing separate MR imaging and X-ray catheterization sessions with a single-session workflow in the iMR lab. By integrating diagnostics and intervention, hospitals can deliver a more coordinated patient experience and reduce per‑patient procedure time by approximately 35%. The approach is also described as freeing capacity in existing X-ray catheterization laboratories for other interventional needs. These operational changes are intended to support both clinical decision-making and program throughput.

For patient care, the program highlights particular benefits in congenital and pediatric heart disease, where repeated procedures are common. MR-guided catheterization without exposure to ionizing radiation is presented as a meaningful change for long‑term health, especially in children. Conducting a single procedure that answers key clinical questions may reduce the number of anesthetics, limit disruptions for families, and optimize hospital resources. During the procedure, physicians are provided with more detailed anatomical, tissue, and functional information. Hospitals seeking to lead in iMR-guided care are offered support for implementation, training, and program development.

“With Imricor Cardiovascular, hospitals can pioneer radiation-free cardiac care, safeguard vulnerable patients, and arm care teams with MR imaging. By doing this, the hospital can also put their programs at the leading edge of iMR-guided catheterization in the United States,” said Greg Englehardt, VP of Global Sales.

“This launch marks an important step forward for both patients and hospitals. We believe better imaging has the power to change how cardiac procedures are performed, and it is especially meaningful to see this change begin with children who can benefit from fewer separate sessions and the elimination of radiation,” stated Steve Wedan, CEO.

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