Distant galaxies improve scanners

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The reliability of patient MRI scans could be improved, after experts looked to the stars to find the answer.

Edinburgh University astronomers and clinicians found the method used to analyse studies of distant galaxies could be used to improve scans.

The astronomy algorithm, a set of mathematical instructions, can be used to correct image distortions which often occur during scanning.

It is hoped the discovery will save the health service time and money.

Patients who undergo MRI scans are required to lie still for 30 minutes or longer.

Any movement means the images become distorted - but the university experts found adapting the algorithm could be used to correct these.

The technique could mean patients no longer having to undergo repeat scans to get accurate results, especially the very young or seriously ill.

The algorithm can also analyse and deliver MRI results instantly.

Prof Alan Heavens, of Edinburgh University's school of physics, said the technology could be put into practice within two or three years.

"It was clear that we had the solution to a general problem, how to compress vast amounts of data into manageable, meaningful results, and we wanted to find applications for it," he said.