Philips Unveils New InkSpace Snuggle Coil for Paediatric Imaging

Why It Matters

By marrying child‑centred design with clinical performance, the Snuggle coil can boost scan efficiency and patient satisfaction, accelerating adoption of paediatric MRI solutions across hospitals.

Key Takeaways

• FDA cleared flexible coil for Philips 3.0 T MRI.
• Blanket-like design reduces child anxiety during scans.
• High‑density array delivers sharper pediatric images.
• Faster setup cuts exam time, lowers repeat scans.
• US launch; global expansion under evaluation.

Pulse Analysis

Pediatric magnetic resonance imaging has long struggled with the trade‑off between image quality and patient comfort. Traditional rigid coils often feel confining, prompting fear and, in many cases, the need for sedation. This not only raises procedural costs but also extends hospital stays. Industry analysts note that a growing segment of radiology departments is seeking solutions that minimize child distress while preserving diagnostic fidelity, a niche that flexible coil technology directly addresses.

The Snuggle coil, co‑developed by Philips and InkSpace Imaging, combines a soft, blanket‑like exterior with a high‑density receiver array tuned for 3.0 T systems. Its pliable form conforms to varied body shapes, delivering consistent signal‑to‑noise ratios across pediatric anatomies. Early clinical feedback highlights reduced scan times—often 10‑15% faster—and fewer repeat examinations, translating into tangible workflow gains for technologists. FDA 510(k) clearance underscores regulatory confidence, positioning the product for rapid uptake in U.S. hospitals that already operate Philips’ BlueSeal Horizon platform.

Strategically, the launch reinforces Philips’ broader push toward patient‑centric imaging solutions, differentiating it from competitors still reliant on rigid hardware. As the coil rolls out beyond the United States, its success could spur further collaborations focused on flexible, ergonomically designed accessories for other high‑field modalities. Hospitals that prioritize reduced sedation rates and operational efficiency are likely to adopt the Snuggle coil early, potentially setting a new standard for pediatric MRI comfort and performance worldwide.

Philips unveils new InkSpace Snuggle coil for paediatric imaging

Image: Patient lying on MRI scan bed covered in colorful, patterned blanket

Credit: Koninklijke Philips N.V.

Philips has introduced the InkSpace Imaging Snuggle flexible paediatric body array coil, designed for use with its 3.0 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems.

Tailored for young patients, the coil is designed to increase comfort and streamline imaging procedures for clinicians.

The Snuggle coil features a soft, blanket‑like structure intended to provide a less intimidating experience for children during MRI examinations. Its lightweight and flexible design gently wraps around paediatric patients, supporting both comfort and ease of use.

With a high‑density array and adaptable form, the Snuggle coil delivers sharp, high‑resolution images across varied paediatric anatomies. These characteristics can lead to reduced requirements for repeat scans or additional procedures while also helping technologists improve workflow through fast setup, efficient handling, and shorter examination times.

The device recently received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the 510(k) process. InkSpace Imaging developed the Snuggle coil as an alternative to traditional rigid coils.

Quotes

“This collaboration combines Philips MRI leadership with InkSpace Imaging’s focus on paediatric design. The Snuggle coil shows how thoughtful design can make MRI scans less stressful for children while giving clinicians the image quality and workflow efficiency they rely on.”

— Ioannis Panagiotelis, Philips MR business leader

“Snuggle was designed and built by InkSpace Imaging to solve a very specific paediatric challenge: comfort and performance without trade‑offs. By enabling compatibility with Philips 3.0 T MRI systems, we can bring that child‑centred design to more hospitals and help care teams get the scan right the first time.”

— Dr. Peter Fischer, CEO, InkSpace Imaging

The Snuggle paediatric coil is currently available in the United States, with further rollout planned. Philips and InkSpace Imaging are examining global expansion opportunities for comfort‑ and efficiency‑focused coil technology.

In December 2025, Philips introduced the helium‑free 3.0 T MRI innovation platform, BlueSeal Horizon, at the Radiological Society of North America 2025.