AIIMS Delhi: India's first portable bedside MRI launched for critically ill patients

New Delhi: The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, has introduced 'India's first portable bedside MRI system,' allowing critically ill ICU patients to undergo rapid brain imaging without the need to be shifted for scans.

The ultra-low-field device can be wheeled directly to patients, eliminating the need for dedicated MRI suites or risky patient transfers.

The system is currently being used at the Centre for Neurological Conditions under Dr. Shailesh Gaikwad. It is expected to significantly improve rapid diagnosis in stroke, trauma, ICU monitoring, paediatrics, and post-operative neurosurgical care.

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Clinicians say that the technology enables faster decision-making in emergencies where conventional imaging is difficult or unsafe. The installation follows regulatory approval in India and is supported by Radiosurgery Global. Experts stated that the development could significantly expand access to brain imaging and strengthen research in point-of-care neurodiagnostics nationwide.

Meanwhile, amid rising temperatures, Dr. Sheffali Gulati, Professor of Paediatrics at AIIMS Delhi, on Thursday, cautioned that children are especially vulnerable to heatwave-related health risks and need close care, adequate hydration, and protection from outdoor exposure to prevent complications.

On heatwave impact, Dr Sheffali Gulati told ANI, "Children are more vulnerable. We should ensure that they have good hydration. So give them small portions of fluids frequently, which are not heavy in sugar. They should prevent any outdoor activities. If a child has epilepsy, they may have more seizures during this time. Children with underlying problems can face aggravation, so they have to be particularly careful. Infants will be very much important to see because they cannot manifest their thirst, so they have to be given fluids around the clock and kept in a cool environment."

She highlights the critical link between heat-related physical symptoms and long-term neurodevelopmental health in children, emphasising the need for immediate preventive care.

On mitigating heat impact, Dr Naval Vikram, Professor, Department of Medicine, AIIMS Delhi, speaking to ANI, said that people who work under circumstances where they are exposed to heatwave conditions should wear loose clothes and keep their heads covered.

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