Ysbyty Gwynedd, Bangor, part of the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, has enhanced image quality while simultaneously decreasing dose with the addition of a SOMATOM Definition Stellar Edge from Siemens Healthcare.
The Definition Stellar Edge is founded on Siemens' revolutionary combination of the Stellar Detector and the unique STRATON X-ray tube with Siemens' z-Sharp Technology, which offers unprecedented image quality and detail at significantly-reduced patient exposure.
The Stellar Detector is the first fully-integrated detector with True Signal Technology whereby electronic detector components are integrated into the photodiode to virtually eliminate electronic noise and improve signal-to-noise ratio. This enables enhanced visualisation in all examinations, but especially in examinations where signal is low, such as imaging bariatric patients. Additionally, component integration reduces ‘cross-talk’ to allow the generation of thin slices with ultra-high 0.30mm isotropic spatial resolution in daily routine.
Patients are also benefitting from a more-comfortable examination as the Definition Edge is a wide-bore system with a pitch of up to 1.7 providing the acquisition speeds of up to 230mm/s, the fastest single source CT acquisition produced by Siemens. This has proven beneficial for breathless, claustrophobic and other difficult to image patients, in addition to increasing overall patient throughput.
“The Definition Edge from Siemens Healthcare is a valuable asset to the department. The system is incredibly intuitive and straightforward to use, and the dose saving capabilities mean that only half the dose is required when imaging the head than that of our previous system,” said Sue Scott-Lee, lead radiographer at Ysbyty Gwynedd.
“As a hospital we pride ourselves in providing the patient with a quality service, so we are thrilled to be able to make patients feel more comfortable during imaging procedures.”
“Ysbyty Gwynedd required a system that provided clinicians with excellent image quality at low dose. We are delighted that they chose the Definition Edge to achieve this,” added John Brady, regional sales manager at Siemens Healthcare.
“As imaging can be an uncomfortable experience for certain patients, it is important clinicians feel comfortable using the technology so an accurate diagnosis can be obtained quickly and effectively, resulting in a more relaxing experience for the patient.”