30/03/2026
Impact of Energy Crisis and Helium Shortage on MRI Services
The ongoing global energy crisis, along with a severe shortage of helium, may significantly impact MRI installations worldwide. Most MRI machines require periodic helium refilling for proper functioning, typically ranging from every 3 months to 8–10 months.
Liquid helium naturally evaporates into gas over time, even when optimal chiller temperatures are maintained. This issue is more prominent in older MRI technologies (8K/10K magnets), which have largely been phased out in the USA, Europe, and the UK over the past decade. However, these systems are still in use in India due to their lower cost.
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Modern MRI Technology (4K MRI with Zero Boil-Off System)
Regulatory bodies such as the FDA permit only 4K MRI systems in the USA, Europe, and the UK. These advanced machines use a “Zero Boil-Off” technology, where a condenser converts helium gas back into liquid form, significantly reducing helium loss.
As a result:
• Helium refilling is required only once every 5 years, typically during cold head replacement
• These systems ensure higher efficiency and uptime
• They support advanced diagnostic studies such as:
• Cardiac MRI
• Prostate Spectroscopy
• Breast Spectroscopy
Due to these advantages, most large corporate hospitals in metro cities prefer installing 4K MRI systems.
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Statement from BIOMED POLYCLINIC LLP
BIOMED POLYCLINIC LLP proudly informs that its MRI system is a 4K MRI, equipped with Zero Boil-Off technology. Therefore, it is less likely to be affected by the current helium crisis. This is the only 4K MRI in Silchar, may be 1/2 more installation in Guwahati.
However, operations may still depend on:
• Stable electricity supply
• Availability of diesel to manage power outages
In case the crisis intensifies, especially under war-like conditions, there may be a necessity to revise service pricing.
