#Italy #Vienna #Esaote #I-Genius #MRI System

Esaote Launches an Innovative Intraoperative MRI System

Esaote, a prominent Italian company known for its medical imaging innovations, has officially entered the world of neurosurgery with the introduction of its groundbreaking intraoperative MRI system, I-Genius. This advancement, a product of extensive research and collaboration with leading neurosurgeons, was prominently featured at the recent EANS annual congress held in Vienna from October 5 to 9, 2025.

The I-Genius system aims to address the critical challenges faced by neurosurgeons during glioma surgeries. Gliomas represent the most common type of primary malignant brain tumors, accounting for approximately 81% of malignant intracranial tumors. Among these, glioblastoma, the most prevalent subtype, encompasses about 45% of all gliomas, with a disheartening five-year survival rate of around 5%. The primary goal during surgery is to excise as much tumor tissue as possible. However, due to the difficulty in distinguishing tumor tissue from healthy brain matter, there remains a significant risk of residual disease.

In clinical practice, imaging techniques are vital for identifying remaining tumor foci post-resection. However, once the dura is opened, the brain shifts, disrupting spatial coherence between preoperative and intraoperative imaging. This shift increases the chances of leaving behind tumor remnants. While ultrasound and CT imaging are currently available during surgery, limitations such as reduced visibility with ultrasound and the risks associated with repeated ionizing radiation from CT scans make these options less desirable.

Esaote’s I-Genius overcomes these limitations by utilizing an open MRI system specifically optimized for neuro-surgical applications. The thoughtful design includes a specialized surgical table and compatible accessories that ensure the patient remains still throughout the procedure. This setup allows for rapid MRI imaging during surgery, enabling surgeons to evaluate whether the tumor has been entirely removed before closing the skull, ultimately reducing complexity, shortening surgery time, and decreasing the likelihood of needing follow-up surgeries.

The significance of this innovation was highlighted during the symposium titled “Expertise Meets Innovation: How the I-Genius MRI Solution Will Change Neurosurgery.” Dr. Roberto Herrera, the head of neurosurgery at the Clinica Adventista Belgrano in Buenos Aires, expressed that “What’s truly innovative about I-Genius is its capability to provide intraoperative imaging at every phase of the neurosurgery process. This empowers the surgeon to resect the lesion, verify the outcome immediately, reassess the next steps accurately and safely, and proceed with confidence. This process can be repeated as often as deemed necessary during the operation, culminating in a final review that assures maximum safe tumor resection while preserving healthy brain matter and the patient's neurological functions.”

Franco Fontana, Esaote’s CEO, articulated the importance of I-Genius by stating, “This represents a significant milestone for Esaote. It is the outcome of a strategy focused on technological innovation, applied research, and close collaboration with the clinical community. With this system, we are venturing into the realm of intraoperative MRI with a solution that is both accessible and sustainable, delivering immense value to daily neurosurgical practices and ultimately enhancing patient quality of life.”

Esaote, established as a leader in medical imaging systems, including ultrasound, dedicated MRI, and diagnostic process management software, is committed to progressing the field of neurosurgery. With roughly 1,300 employees, half of whom are located in Italy, the company directs about 13% of its consolidated revenue each year into research and development efforts. Operating across more than 100 countries, Esaote continues to prioritize innovation and patient outcomes.

For further information, visit Esaote's official website.