Alder Hey installs Europe’s first MRI scanner of its kind, boosting research and care for kids and families

Alder Hey Children’s Hospital has just made history by becoming the first hospital in Europe to install a pioneering 3-Tesla MRI research scanner — and only the second of its kind in the world.

The new state-of-the-art MRI scanner, which has been funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), will transform how patients of all ages — from newborn babies to older adults — are diagnosed and treated.

It’s a huge moment for Alder Hey and for the wider region too. With demand for MRI scans growing all the time, this new scanner gives researchers and medics more time and space to carry out crucial studies without clashing with busy clinical schedules.

Jason Taylor, Research General Manager at Alder Hey, says the impact will be massive for Liverpool and beyond.

“MRI scanners are always in demand for clinical work, which can make it hard to get time for research,” he said. “This new scanner means we can run more research studies here at Alder Hey — and it’s also available for our partners, whether that’s other hospitals, universities or industry experts. Together, we can drive forward life-changing research.”

MRI scans are safe and non-invasive, using powerful magnets to look inside the body. This next-level 3-Tesla scanner produces incredibly detailed images in less time, with clever tech that makes the whole experience more comfortable — especially important for kids.

One of the big pluses is that the scanner suite is designed with young patients in mind. There’s calming lighting, sounds and video projections to help children relax, plus in-bore entertainment so they can watch their favourite shows while the scan takes place.

Professor Shivaram Avula, Consultant Radiologist at Alder Hey, says the new kit is a “game-changer”.

“This scanner gives us the speed, resolution and flexibility we need to lead the way in research. We’ll be able to study everything from childhood conditions to adult diseases, track how illnesses progress, spot early signs of problems and test how well new treatments work,” he said.

One of the first projects will involve scanning newborns while they naturally sleep, to learn how early life and environment shape the brain — knowledge that could improve children’s health for generations.

Professor Avula added: “Families really want to get involved in research, and this scanner means they can. It’s going to help us build the knowledge we need to care for kids now and in the future.”

Alder Hey’s new scanner is expected to attract researchers and partners from across the UK and beyond, boosting Liverpool’s place as a hub for cutting-edge medical research.

Anyone interested in working with Alder Hey or booking time on the new scanner can find out more on their website.

Meet the Alder Hey radiologist who travelled to Ghana to help medics there build a brighter future – READ MORE HERE.

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