Siemens Somatom X.cite CT Scanner

Siemens Somatom X.cite is a single-source computed tomography (CT) system developed by Siemens Healthineers. The device reconstructs X-ray transmission data as well as generates and processes cross-sectional images of the body. The system can be used for low-dose screening of high-risk lung cancer patients.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the Somatom X.cite system in combination with myExam Companion user guidance system for clinical use in November 2019.

Siemens CT scanner has been used clinically for bone marrow visualisation, thorax to pelvis CT scan, stroke assessment, lung, pancreas and abdomen evaluation, inner ear assessment and coronary artery scan after heart disease.

Siemens Somatom X.cite CT scanner design and features

Somatom X.cite CT system comprises Stellar^Infinity detector system, Vectron^® X-ray tube, a sliding gantry, and a couch. The system features optional Moodlight LED in adjustable colours and FAST 3D Positioning Camera for fast integrated workflow.

The system is designed for installation in a single room with 17m² (183ft²) space, featuring 105kW generator power with a maximum scan speed of up to 21.7cm a second.

Based on TrueSignal technology, the Stellar^Infinity detector system features anti-scatter 3D collimator grid. The Edge technology enables the system to acquire 128 slices of 0.5mm size with a spatial resolution of 0.30mm for screening.

Vectron X-ray tube allows low 70kV or 80kV imaging with maximum power mode of 1,200mA, lowering radiation dose and improving the contrast of images. The scanning process can be fine-tuned to 10kV steps for personalised dose modulation.

Vectron X-ray tube, together with the Stellar^Infinity detector, enables precise visualisation of minute details with as low as 0.30mm resolution.

Gantry details of the Somatom CT Scanner

The gantry opening is 82cm-wide, while the table load capacity is 307kg. The gantry, cooled with either water or air, is equipped with visual patient instruction, a visual breath-hold indicator and a patient observation camera, a two-dimensional visualisation camera for close monitoring of the patient inside the gantry.

User guidance system details

The system uses myExam Companion, an artificial intelligence (AI)-based user guidance system, to unveil the entire potential of SOMATOM X.cite.

MyExam Companion assists clinicians in complex clinical decision-making and adapts scans automatically to clinical decision trees to set acquired images parameters and its reconstruction. Trees can be viewed at the human-machine interface through the scanner mobile, tablet or operator console.

Siemens Somatom X.Cite software and technology details

The system features SOMARIS / 7 with syngo CT VB10 platform software. It is a command-based programme for the overall functioning of the scanner, which utilises iterative reconstruction methods, ADMIRE, SAFIRE, and iMAR.

All processes, including patient set up and capturing and analysis of images, are standardised and simplified using a technology developed by GO Technologies to improve workflow automation. The system uses Tin Filter technology as selective photon shield.

Benefits of the Siemens CT scanner

Somatom X.Cite CT scan machine is designed for patients who are obese or those with orthopaedic conditions. The wide bore of the system, as well as the patient observation camera, provide a comfortable position for patients during screening.

Vectron X-ray tube and the Stellar^Infinity detector improve the image personalisation with high power and resolution and provide comprehensive results.

Visual patient instruction improves patient synchronisation with breathing commands by using breath-hold countdown coded with colour. The advanced user guidance system and use of detachable tablets improve workflow and allow more time for clinicians to spend with patients.