Siemens launches FAST CARE platform for lower dose CT scanning
4 Feb 2011
Siemens Healthcare is launching FAST CARE, a new technology
platform for CT scans that will give shorter examination times and lower
dose.
The platform automates many operating procedures, allowing for
simpler image acquisition, preparation, reconstruction and diagnosis
to also improve CT operator workflow.
It combines two main features: Fully Assisting Scanner
Technologies (FAST) to optimise scanning efficiency and Combined
Applications to Reduce Exposure (CARE) for dose reduction. The
solution will be available on SOMATOM Definition AS scanners from
March 2011 and on Definition Flash scanners from May 2011. Existing
Definition product family CT scanners will also be able to upgrade
to the new platform.
“FAST CARE is the first platform to combine reduced dose with
optimised functionality for CT. The new technology will help improve
workflow efficiency and simplify processes for radiographers,” said
Russell Lodge, CT Product Manager at Siemens Healthcare. “With dose
reduction features, patients will receive more efficient treatment
at the lowest possible dose without affecting imaging quality."
FAST applications include: ‘FAST Planning’ to determine scan and
reconstruction areas; ‘FAST Cardio Wizard’ to help clinicians
practise in preparation for cardiac examinations; and ‘FAST Scan
Assistant’ and ‘FAST Scan Adjust’ to select parameters for the best
possible image quality. In a single click, ‘FAST Spine’ makes
considerable time savings in spine reconstructions by offering a
list of typical scan regions.
CARE applications include: ‘CARE Profile’ featuring an automatic
display of dose distribution; ‘CARE Dashboard’ showing which dose
reduction functions are active so that they can be further
optimised; and ‘CARE Child ’ which allows paediatric examinations at
70kV, significantly reducing dose. Furthermore, the ‘CARE kV’
application suggests an appropriate kV level for the patient and
organ plus automatically adjusts other parameters to improve image
quality and reduce dose by up to 60%.