CT 1 – Siemens Healthineers NAEOTOM Alpha
This is a first-generation dual source CT scanner with photon counting technology. The photon counting detectors have 4 main advantages compared to conventional (scintillator based) CT detectors. The pixels of the detectors are much smaller than before without radiation dose penalty. This leads to images with spatial resolution at a new level. Each photon´s energy is measured and therefore images are created without electronic noise. The energy information of the photons can be used for advanced spectral applications, such as k-edge imaging. Moreover, the detector is more sensitive for low-energy photons, which makes it possible to reduce the radiation dose and contrast media dosage drastically.
CT 2 – Siemens Healthineers SOMATOM Force
This CT enables routinely performed exams at low kV settings (70–90 kV), even in adults. This is due to the system being equipped with powerful generators and X-ray tubes. The low kV settings allow for substantial reductions in contrast medium dose. Improvements have been made on the detector side as well with an increased number of detector rows and upgraded collimation. The SOMATOM Force renders images with high spatial resolution and soft-tissue contrast. It contains two X-ray sources and two detectors, which can be used simultaneously. This in combination with a broader detector enables faster scans. High speed scanning is necessary for cardiac examinations as well as for restless patients. The two X-ray sources also provide the possibility for dual energy examinations with improved spectral separation.