CT Technology Provides a New Standard for Dose Reduction

The platform automates many operating procedures, allowing for simpler image acquisition, preparation, reconstruction, diagnosis, and operator workflow.

Called FAST CARE, the technology combines two main features: fully assisting scanner technologies (FAST) to optimize scanning efficiency and combined applications to reduce exposure (CARE) for dose reduction. The solution, developed by Siemens Healthcare (Erlangen, Germany), 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 optimized 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 practice 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 timesavings 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, which shows dose reduction functions are active so that they can be further optimized; and CARE Child, which allows pediatric examinations at 70 kV, significantly reducing dose. Moreover, the CARE kV application suggests an appropriate kV level for the patient and organ, and automatically adjusts other parameters to improve image quality and reduce dose by up to 60%.

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