If you own an MRI scanner, your original equipment manufacturer (OEM) has likely used the phrase "end of life" when discussing your equipment. The term "end of life" can be confusing, especially if your system is performing to your facility's liking.
So, what exactly does an EOL designation mean for your MRI system and what steps should you take moving forward?
Below we will walk you through what EOL means, and why you don't need to run a buy a new system just yet.
What happens when the OEM declares your MRI System "end of life"?
The International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF) supported by the FDA, defines End of Life as "the life cycle stage of a product starting when the manufacturer no longer sells the product".
MRI systems are typically deemed “end of life” (EOL) after specific models have been out of production for 10 or more years.
Tagging an MRI as EOL is sometimes a tactic OEMs use to motivate their customers to upgrade the existing software or buy a newer model.
Although these issues may indeed arise as equipment ages, the OEM estimation of when these problems will occur is dependent on how quickly they need to push the newer equipment/software out into the market.
How Long Will My "End of Life" MRI System Last?
If you've received an OEM "end of life" designation for your MRI system, don't worry. Contrary to the panic this may cause, an MRI system that receives regular maintenance can last well beyond 10 years.
MRI systems in this age range are the bread and butter of the secondary equipment market and independent service organizations (ISO). While a 5-10-year-old system may be uninteresting to an OEM, you may have greater success with parts and service options. Primarily because OEM's focus on selling and supporting newer systems.
If you're interested in exploring the parts and service option, consider third-party suppliers like Block Imaging. These organizations specialize in maintaining and sourcing parts for older systems, ensuring that you receive the necessary support to keep your scanner operational and reliable.
Most of these suppliers maintain an extensive inventory of parts and work with experienced engineers.
By going this route, your supplier can help your facility affordably and expertly extend the life of your "end of life" MRI system for another 5-10 years.
What MRI Systems are Considered "End of Life"?
Many manufacturers would prefer older models enter retirement, even though these scanners often have many years of functional service left. This preference is primarily driven by the desire to promote newer models and technologies.
However, the lifespan of these older MRI scanners can be significantly extended with the right maintenance and support.
With regular and proper maintenance, these models can continue to provide high-quality scans without compromising on service quality or the availability of replacement parts.
For example, older (but still popular) models that we regularly support include:
- GE Signa 9x
- GE Signa Excite II
- Siemens Symphony
- Hitachi Airis II
- Hitachi Airis Elite
- Philips Intera
- Philips Achieva
These are just a few examples of the systems that "End of Life" systems that Block Imaging and other third-party service providers can help support.
The Takeaway
To wrap up, the term "end of life", while initially alarming, does not mean that your equipment is no longer useful or effective. As we’ve discussed, many MRI systems deemed EOL by OEMs can continue to perform well with regular maintenance and the right support.
By leveraging the services of independent service organizations like Block Imaging, you can extend the life of your MRI scanner significantly.
Ultimately, an "end of life" label does not dictate the immediate need for a new system. With proper care and access to quality parts and service, your MRI system can continue to serve your facility efficiently for many years to come!
Paul Crawford: July 15, 2024
