What the Nines Acquisition Means for Sirona and the Future of AI

Since 2022 began, artificial intelligence companies in healthcare have experienced significant activity. IBM’s sale of Watson Health to private equity was followed by MaxQ exiting radiology AI software. Our Nines acquisition announcement prompted some to question whether AI can genuinely transform healthcare.

However, RadNet’s acquisition of European AI companies Aidence and Quantib demonstrates a different narrative. The critical distinction involves operational integration. Non-integrated AI or standalone AI is simply not viable.

The Fragmentation Problem

The core challenge within radiology involves fragmented workflows. Each clinic operates unique IT configurations combining different PACS, RIS, EMR, and VR systems from various vendors. This creates countless distinct workflows, and bolting AI onto this fragmented landscape simply doesn’t work. The technology needs to be woven into the fabric of how radiologists actually work.

Sirona’s Approach: Built from the Ground Up

Sirona’s approach differs fundamentally. We’ve re-architected radiology IT from the ground up and constructed a cloud-native radiology operating system (RadOS). This platform supports seamless AI algorithm integration, demonstrated through our RevealDx partnerships and RSNA 2021 presentations. When AI lives inside the platform rather than alongside it, the impact on clinical workflow is transformative.

What Nines Brings to Sirona

The Nines acquisition brings complementary strengths: FDA-cleared devices (NinesAI and NinesMeasure) plus teleradiology expertise and AI-powered workflow management tools. Leadership from both organizations identified shared mission alignment in solving identical problems from different perspectives. Together, we can deliver a more complete solution than either company could alone.

The Mission Remains the Same

Sirona’s mission remains consistent: improving radiology through software. The acquisition represents an opportunity to deliver faster, more comprehensive marketplace solutions by combining complementary expertise. We’re not pivoting—we’re accelerating.

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