Swoop Point-of-Care Magnetic Resonance Imaging (POC MRI) Scanner
Overview
The Hyperfine Swoop Point-of-Care (POC) MRI Scanner is the world’s first FDA-cleared, portable, ultra-low-field magnetic resonance brain imaging system. Designed by Hyperfine, Inc., it aims to make MRI more accessible and affordable by bringing diagnostic-quality brain imaging directly to the patient’s bedside.
The Swoop system utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, including the proprietary Optive AI™ software, to enhance image quality, reduce noise and blur, and support diagnostic confidence. It operates from a standard electrical wall outlet (using less than 900W) and is controlled via an intuitive 12.9-inch Apple® iPad Pro®. Its unique design incorporates built-in noise cancellation technology, eliminating the need for a dedicated shielded room, unlike conventional MRI systems.
Capable of acquiring critical images within minutes, the Swoop system provides T1-weighted, T2-weighted, DWI, and FLAIR sequences, with advanced features like automatic alignment and motion correction. Its open and patient-friendly design helps reduce anxiety, allowing family members or caregivers to remain close during scans.
Reviewed by Pouyan Golshani, MD — Interventional Radiologist
Key Features
- Portable, ultra-low-field MR brain imaging system
- AI-powered software (Optive AIu2122) for enhanced image quality and diagnostic confidence
- Operated via a 12.9-inch Appleu00ae iPad Prou00ae
- Plugs into a standard electrical wall outlet (900W peak power)
- Built-in noise cancellation, no dedicated shielded room required
- Acquires T1, T2, FLAIR, and DWI (with ADC map) sequences in minutes
- Open design for patient comfort and reduced anxiety
- DICOM image export to local PACS or Hyperfine Image Viewer
- Automatic alignment and motion correction features
- Low magnetic field strength (0.064 Tesla) for increased safety and reduced artifacts
Use Cases
- General brain imaging and assessment
- Stroke detection and management in emergency and ICU settings
- Diagnosis and monitoring of traumatic brain injury
- Dementia screening and monitoring for amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA-E)
- Pediatric brain imaging at the bedside
- Imaging in resource-limited environments and mobile stroke units
What Physicians Need to Know
Leverage the Swoop POC MRI for immediate bedside brain imaging in critical care, emergency departments, and outpatient neurology clinics to reduce patient transport risks and delays. Utilize its AI-powered image quality and rapid DWI sequences for timely stroke detection, including small ischemic lesions and hemorrhage. Consider its role in monitoring neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's, especially for detecting ARIA-E in patients on amyloid-targeting therapies, and for automated ventricular volume measurements. The system's ease of use allows existing trained staff to operate it, streamlining workflow and increasing access to MRI where conventional systems are impractical.
The Swoop system is controlled by a wireless tablet (Apple iPad Pro), facilitating image review and export. While the core system is self-contained, its utility in clinical workflows suggests potential for integration with Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) for comprehensive patient record management and with Electronic Health Records (EHR) for seamless data flow. Hyperfine has partnered with Nvidia to enhance AI-driven image reconstruction and integrate real-time clinical decision support, indicating a pathway for advanced software integrations. Further integration with hospital IT infrastructure would optimize its role in a broader healthcare ecosystem.
Details
| Category | Neurology AI, Radiology & Imaging AI |
| Pricing |
Contact for pricing
|
| Deployment | On-premise (portable device), point-of-care, bedside |
| Compliance | |
| BAA Available | Unknown AI-estimated |
| HIPAA Compliant | Unknown AI-estimated |
| FDA Status |
1 AI-estimated The Swoop system received initial FDA 510(k) clearance in February 2020 for brain imaging, followed by clearance in August 2020 for patients of all ages. K212456 was cleared in November 2021 for deep learning image reconstruction techniques to enhance image quality. |
| Integrations | |
| EHR | Not specified |
| Specialties | Emergency Medicine, Neurology, Radiology |
What the Web Says
The Hyperfine Swoop Point-of-Care (POC) MRI Scanner is an FDA-cleared, AI-powered portable brain MRI system designed to bring imaging directly to the patient's bedside. It utilizes an ultra-low-field magnet, making it safer and more accessible than traditional high-field MRI machines. Recent studies highlight its diagnostic value, showing high concordance with standard MRI for detecting intracranial pathology, and a superior patient experience due to increased comfort and reduced anxiety.
Overall: PositiveStrengths
- Portable and can be used in various care settings, including ICUs and outpatient clinics.
- Significantly less expensive than conventional MRI systems, with no major siting costs.
- Improved patient experience due to open design, quieter operation, and reduced claustrophobia and anxiety.
- Can be operated by trained clinical staff without the need for specialized MR technologists.
- Provides diagnostic-quality imaging, with high concordance (92-98%) with standard MRI in detecting intracranial pathology.
- Reduces risks associated with transporting critically ill patients to a traditional MRI suite.
Limitations
- Lower magnetic field strength (0.064T) compared to conventional MRIs (typically 3T), which may impact image resolution for certain conditions.
- Questions raised about its diagnostic utility for acute ischemic/hemorrhagic strokes compared to CT for early triage in resource-limited settings.
- Some general feedback on G2 for 'Swoop' (not specifically the MRI scanner) mentions a simple interface that could be updated and a lack of content on their site.
- Potential for conflicts of interest in published peer-reviewed papers as they often originate from Hyperfine.
- One Reddit user questioned the 'AI' part of the system after trying it.
Based on reviews from: Hyperfine.io, Business Wire, AuntMinnie, Reddit, NeuroNews, GuruFocus, PubMed, G2, Being Patient
Last updated: 2026-07-21
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