Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1996-2003
Title: The Innovations of Brian Saam in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Introduction
Brian Saam, an accomplished inventor based in Princeton, NJ, has made significant contributions to the field of medical imaging, specifically in the realm of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). With a total of nine patents under his name, Saam's work primarily focuses on utilizing hyperpolarized noble gases for enhanced imaging techniques.
Latest Patents
One of Saam's most notable patents involves a revolutionary method of imaging the spatial distribution of noble gases through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometry. This innovative method includes detecting a spatial distribution of at least one noble gas and generating a representation of this distribution. The specified noble gases, such as Xenon-129 and Helium-3, are crucial due to their nuclear spin properties. Importantly, these gases can be thermally polarized or, preferably, hyperpolarized through optical (laser) pumping in conjunction with alkali metals or through metastability exchange. The resulting representation offers profound insights into both chemical and biological systems, including human and animal tissues, allowing for advanced imaging techniques.
The apparatus outlined in this patent facilitates NMR imaging of noble gases, equipped with means to both image and store quantities of these hyperpolarized gases. Furthermore, Saam's work extends to medical compositions utilizing bifunctional gases that are effective for both anesthesiology and NMR imaging, underscoring the medical significance of his innovations.
Career Highlights
Brian Saam's professional journey includes significant positions at prestigious institutions. He has worked at Princeton University and The Research Foundation of the State University of New York, contributing to his extensive knowledge and expertise in nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. His involvement with these institutions has allowed him to be at the forefront of research and innovation in medical imaging.
Collaborations
Saam has collaborated with other esteemed professionals in his field, including Gordon D Cates, Jr. and Bastiaan Driehuys. Their collective expertise has fostered advancements in the applications of NMR and the use of hyperpolarized gases, contributing to the growing body of research that aims to improve medical imaging techniques.
Conclusion
Brian Saam's contributions to the field of magnetic resonance imaging are notable and impactful. Through his nine patents, he has enhanced our understanding and capabilities in imaging techniques using hyperpolarized noble gases. His work, supported by his collaborations and experiences at reputable institutions, continues to influence the evolution of medical imaging, offering new avenues for diagnostics and patient care.