Patients at The Royal Liverpool University Hospital are receiving faster and more accurate imaging following the recent installation of two new CT scanners from Siemens Healthcare. The SOMATOM® Definition AS and AS+ CT scanners join an existing SOMATOM® Sensation 16, providing local patients with comprehensive imaging care.
The SOMATOM Definition AS has been installed into the radiology department for outpatient, cardiac and colonography cases. The AS+ version, offering enhanced functionality, has been installed into the A&E department for use in trauma, emergency intervention and brain perfusion imaging.
“The two new Definition CT systems complement our existing scanner allowing us to offer a wider range of patient services,” states Julie Houghton, CT Superintendent Radiographer at The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, part of the Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust. “Also, due to the fast scanning speed, we have been able to increase patient throughput and significantly reduce waiting lists.”
The SOMATOM Definition AS+ is one of the world’s first adaptive scanners that not only provides exceptional image quality but is also suited to any patient or clinical need. It is an expert system for neurological and cardiac imaging, obtaining extremely fast coverage with 128 slices per rotation. With a temporal resolution of 150ms, images are free from movement artefacts and show the finest anatomical details to assist with diagnosis and treatment planning. The ‘Adaptive 4D Spiral’ capabilities of the Definition AS+ open up new dimensions, giving whole organ coverage in 4D for tumour perfusion, allowing clinicians to see a complete picture instead of preselecting a narrow section to evaluate for perfusion defects.
The SOMATOM Definition AS is highly adaptable, speeding up examinations for patients such as children, the obese and those suffering from claustrophobia. Its versatility alleviates potentially stressful situations whilst still ensuring the highest diagnostic confidence. It is also the first scanner to combine dynamic components, such as the Adaptive Dose Shield, which blocks unnecessary radiation ensuring the patient will only be exposed to a clinically relevant dose.
“The AS and AS+ provide adaptable solutions for any patient or clinical need in routine and emergency situations,” states Clive West, Regional Sales Manager at Siemens Healthcare. “The systems ensure that a quick and accurate diagnosis is provided, which is of particular importance in trauma situations.”
About Siemens Healthcare
The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world’s largest suppliers to the healthcare industry. The company is a renowned medical solutions provider with core competence and innovative strength in diagnostic and therapeutic technologies as well as in knowledge engineering, including information technology and system integration. With its laboratory diagnostics acquisitions, Siemens Healthcare is the first integrated healthcare company, bringing together imaging and lab diagnostics, therapy and healthcare information technology solutions, supplemented by consulting and support services. Siemens Healthcare delivers solutions across the entire continuum of care – from prevention and early detection, to diagnosis, therapy and care. Additionally, Siemens Healthcare is the global market leader in innovative hearing instruments. The company employs more than 49,000 people worldwide and operates in 130 countries. In the fiscal year 2008 (Sept. 30), Siemens Healthcare reported sales of €11.2 billion, orders of €11.8 billion, and Sector profit of €1.2 billion. Further information can be found by visiting http://www.siemens.co.uk/healthcare.
For more information please contact:
Siemens Healthcare
T: 01276 696000
E: medmarketing.med.gb@siemens.com
W: http://www.siemens.co.uk/healthcare
