Siemens Definition Dual-Source

Description

Overview

The Siemens SOMATOM Definition Dual-Source platform (encompassing the original Definition DS, Definition Flash, and Definition Force) was engineered to eliminate traditional single-source CT performance bottlenecks. By mounting two complete X-ray imaging chains on a single rotating gantry frame, the system doubles slice acquisition speed and halves the rotation arc needed for image reconstruction.

This configuration allows cardiac motion to be frozen at temporal resolution levels (75 ms) previously unattainable with standard CT systems. High heart rates, arrhythmias, or respiratory distress no longer compromise diagnostic image quality. Furthermore, by running both tubes simultaneously at different voltage outputs (such as 80 kV and 140 kV with Selective Photon Shielding), the system performs Dual-Source Dual Energy (DSDE) scanning to differentiate uric acid, bone, iodine, and soft tissue structures in a single pass.

Key Features & Advanced Technologies

• Dual-Source Gantry Geometry: Integrates two STRATON™ X-ray tubes and two low-noise Stellar detector arrays positioned at a 90-degree angle within a 78 cm gantry bore.

• 75 ms Native Temporal Resolution: By using two tube/detector pairs, a complete quarter-rotation (90°) supplies 180° of projection data, allowing motion-free coronary artery visualization regardless of patient heart rate or rhythm variation.

• Flash Spiral Scan Mode: Drives table feeds up to 458 mm/s. Enables full-chest scans in under 0.6 seconds and complete thorax-abdomen-pelvis acquisitions in under 2 seconds, eliminating the need for patient breath-holds or sedation during pediatric trauma studies.

• Dual Energy Material Characterization (DSDE): Simultaneous acquisition at low and high kV spectra enables virtual non-contrast (VNC) imaging, monoenergetic artifact reduction, gout assessment, kidney stone differentiation, and iodine mapping without increasing radiation dose.

• Twin STRATON™ Direct-Cooled Tubes: Two 100 kW tubes featuring direct-oil cooling deliver up to 200 kW total generator power output. The zero-heat-storage design eliminates tube cooling delays even during back-to-back dynamic volume runs.

• Selective Photon Shield: Filters out unproductive photons from the high-energy X-ray spectrum, ensuring Dual Energy studies remain dose-neutral compared to standard 120 kV single-source exams.

• Adaptive Dose Shield & CARE kV: Dynamically blocks pre- and post-spiral scatter radiation while automatically matching tube voltage to patient habitus and clinical targets.

Technical Specifications