160-Detector Row CT scanner Generates 320 Slices in One Rotation

A new computed tomography (CT) system generates 320 slices per 80 mm in a single rotation using a reconstruction algorithm. Its unique concept allows an easy upgrade path to 320-detector rows, with 160-mm coverage, and 640 slices per rotation.

Toshiba Medical Systems Corp. (Tokyo, Japan) introduces a new 160-detector row scanner; the Aquilion /Premium, which, by virtue of 160 in-line Quantum detectors, covers 80 mm in a single rotation. The very small detector aperture of just 0.5-mm, the world's smallest available in CT technology for patient care, provides true isotropic voxels of just 0.35 mm, visualizing the finest details for fast and accurate diagnosis.

Aquilion /Premium generates 320 slices per rotation using the coneXact three-dimensional (3D) volume reconstruction adopted in Toshiba's flagship Aquilion One CT system. By applying advanced technology, reconstruction artifacts related to the wide cone angle are virtually neglected, providing highest quality images at any anatomic position. Pending the requested scan-range, up to 160 rows of data (80 mm) are scanned in only one rotation. Since the acquisition is completed in a shortest possible period of time, patient comfort is maximized. The unique "(i)-station” provides audio-visual instructions for the patients. During scanning, the remaining breath-hold can be viewed by the patient. For children, special animated movies were developed easing the stress, and making examinations easy to follow. Precise anatomic positioning is warranted through the patient couch, which handles up to 300 kg.

Through advanced dose reduction techniques, the Aquilion /Premium substantially lowers the patient dose by applying sophisticated algorithms on the raw-data. Working in three dimensions, Quantum Denoising Software (QDS), a noise reduction algorithm, and Boost3D, an algorithm compensating for objects with increased absorption such as the pelvis, lower the patient dose up to 50%, compared to usual levels. In addition the Aquilion /Premium features active collimation, minimizing unnecessary patient exposure caused by over-ranging when scanning in Helical mode, saving dose up to 20%.

The wide volume of 80 mm ensures faster scan-times for all applications. A typical cardiac exam can be acquired in just three beats, therefore improving diagnostic accuracy. Moreover, when compared to a typical scan in helical mode a substantial dose reduction is realized. Dynamic processes exceeding the 80 mm are provides by a volume shuttle mode. This wide volume acquisition technique provides extended coverage at the short scan-times, enabling 4D viewing.

The Aquilion /Premium uses a uniquely designed energy recycling system. When gantry rotation is ceased, released energy is used to power the computers, therefore reducing energy consumption. The system provides excellent performance in low contrast detectability, 2-mm at 0.3% and dose of just 22.5 mGy, visualizing small complex anatomic structures, such as coronary arteries. The system offers better quality images at lower radiation levels, therefore lowering power consumption.

Optimal patient management data are secured by large, on board, storage facilities. Up to 800,000 images can be stored for immediate access when needed. In addition, the large raw-data storage facility keeps the acquired data for a prolonged period of time, when needed for additional specific reconstructions. The user will be offered the latest Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) standard. The newly developed, enhanced, increases the transfer speed up to 10 times, compared to the typically applicable transfer rate. The transfer of 1,200 images, which would normally take over three minutes, is completed in a mere 20 seconds.

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Toshiba Medical Systems