Under the theme "Planet Radiology," ECR 2025 became the global hub for the latest innovations in medical imaging from 26 February to 2 March. With over 20,000 participants from 131 countries and over 200 industry exhibitors, the event fostered dynamic discussions, cutting-edge research, and valuable collaborations. Companies showcased technologies designed to improve operational efficiency, expand access to care, and prioritize environmental sustainability.
Sustainability was a key focus throughout the event, with vendors highlighting reduced energy usage, extended system lifespans, and strategies to minimize repeat scanning and downtime. This was particularly evident in MRI technology, which is known for its high energy consumption and reliance on helium -- a resource that is becoming increasingly scarce and costly.
One standout innovation was GE HealthCare's Freelium technology, a next-generation MRI system that uses only 1% of the helium required by conventional machines, significantly reducing its environmental impact. This system is not yet commercially available.
GE HealthCare's Freelium technology is a work in progress. All images courtesy of ESR and Sebastian Kreuzberger.
While most “helium-free” systems still contain some helium, other companies -- including Fujifilm, Siemens Healthineers, United Imaging, and Philips -- are also advancing low-helium or helium-free systems. These innovations also reduce the need for quench pipes, making installations more flexible and can help expand access to MRI in more rural communities.
Beyond helium reduction, AI technologies help enhance energy efficiency in MRI systems by shortening scan times and enabling smart power-down features during idle periods. The widespread adoption of these technologies may be slow due to high initial costs and infrastructure challenges, but environmental concerns are likely to accelerate their uptake in the future.
Mobile CT expands access to care
ECR 2025 showcased the growing role of mobile CT in improving healthcare access, especially in underserved regions. Siemens Healthineers introduced a mobile stroke unit for rapid stroke assessment and treatment in pre-hospital settings, while Canon unveiled the CT Hybrid Elite, a mobile system designed to enhance screening and extend imaging capabilities to remote areas. These innovations highlight the increasing demand for mobile imaging solutions in rural and resource-limited settings.
Siemens Healthineers' mobile stroke diagnostic system, featuring a head-only CT scanner that fits into a standard ambulance, promises to significantly reduce treatment times for stroke patients. Similarly, Canon and Samsung presented mobile CT products aimed at lung cancer screening and rural healthcare support.
Vendors emphasized new advances in cardiac imaging at ECR 2025.
Additionally, mobile ultrasound systems received attention, with improvements in image quality and ease of use. As hardware systems reach parity, software upgrades have become key to maintaining cutting-edge diagnostic capabilities.
Through the theme of expanding access to care, remote scanning was more prominent this year, allowing more experienced radiologists to guide local practitioners or conduct examinations in areas with limited access to specialists. The technology can also be used to support radiologists in training to conduct complex scans, supported by more experienced radiologists around the world.
New advancements
ECR 2025 also featured major developments in fusion imaging, photon-counting technology, and molecular imaging. Ziehm Imaging introduced its fusion imaging technology, which combines preoperative CT data with real-time fluoroscopy to improve precision in complex vascular procedures, such as Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Reconstruction (FEVAR).
The event also underscored the ongoing progress in photon-counting CT (PCCT), with Canon unveiling its CZT photon-counting detector, now incorporated into several prototypes. Siemens Healthineers' exploration of PCCT in cardiac CT angiography, and its potential for other specialties, further highlighted its evolving applications. While PCCT is still in development for most, it holds promise for clinical use in the near future.
Molecular imaging also seems to be gaining momentum, particularly in precision medicine, extending beyond oncology to neurology and endocrinology. United Imaging showcased its uMI Panvivo PET/CT system, designed to enhance clinical confidence in oncology, Alzheimer’s, and cancer treatments, with trials expanding into other therapeutic areas. As these technologies evolve, regulatory approval will be essential for their widespread clinical adoption.
Role of AI expands
AI’s role continues to evolve and expand. At ECR 2025, vendors showcased innovative tools designed to automate image acquisition, postprocessing, and report generation, all aimed at enhancing diagnostic accuracy and allowing healthcare practitioners to dedicate more time to patient care. Workforce challenges in imaging are long-standing, but the developments reflect the industry’s ongoing commitment to alleviating pressure on an overstretched workforce and optimising available resources.
Among the key innovations was United Imaging's uDR Aurora, a ceiling-mounted digital radiography system with dual 2D cameras for one-click autopositioning based on patient anatomy. This automation reduces exam times, minimizes errors, and enhances patient cooperation through intelligent voice guidance. Siemens Healthineers showcased its Automatic Spine digital radiography software, automating Cobb's Angle measurements for spinal assessments and eliminating time-consuming manual calculations. The European debut of the company's Acuson Sequoia ultrasound system highlighted its AI abdomen feature, reducing scan times through autolabeling and measurements.
AI also plays a key role in medical imaging services and maintenance. The importance of predictive maintenance is growing as healthcare providers seek to minimize unexpected equipment failures. Advanced imaging systems now leverage AI-based monitoring to identify early warning signs of malfunctions, thereby reducing costly downtime and ensuring uninterrupted clinical operations.
GE Healthcare, for example, showcased its Tube Watch predictive monitoring solution, which leverages AI and digital twin technology to remotely monitor and predict tube failures or x-ray generation chain issues. Such advancements highlight the potential of AI to transform not only the workforce dynamics but also the operational efficiency of healthcare institutions, ultimately enhancing the quality of patient care.
Poornima Anil.
ECR 2025 reinforced the industry's commitment to balancing innovation, affordability, and sustainability in medical imaging. From eco-friendly systems to AI-driven efficiency improvements, vendors showcased solutions that lower costs while enhancing diagnostic accuracy and patient care. While progress is often incremental rather than transformative, the steady advancements in sustainable practices and smart technologies reflect a clear dedication to meeting the evolving needs of healthcare providers in improving patient outcomes.
Poornima Anil is a senior market analyst at Signify Research.
The comments and observations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of AuntMinnieEurope.com, nor should they be construed as an endorsement or admonishment of any particular vendor, analyst, industry consultant, or consulting group.
