AI-powered productivitywith the NAEOTOM Alpha class photon-counting CT

Patient-centered innovations are designed to meet patients’ needs, which are central to their healthcare experience. For example, precise patient positioning in the isocenter is key for high image quality and low dose. The AI algorithms in the FAST 3D Camera can speed up this workflow step with one-click automated patient positioning while safeguarding the correct scan direction and indicating potential collisions of the patient or other devices with the gantry. Upcoming software innovations will deliver additional state-of-the-art capabilities to the FAST 3D Camera.

Using tablets in the mobile workflow means more time is spent close to the patient, which - as shown in a study - has led to an increase in positive patient experience of 62%.³ Pursuing more natural human-machine interaction, the NAEOTOM Alpha class also includes smart ring and funnel mood lights that are designed to make the scanning experience more comfortable for patients.

Based on an internal study, it was shown that myExam Companion helps technologists accelerate the acquisition workflow, enabling them to reach decisions quickly and more consistently.⁵ Its AI-supported clinical decision trees automatically set the parameters of every scan, for example, based on the patient’s ECG signal. Further, simple and patient-specific questions guide technologists of various skill levels in selecting optimal scan and recon parameters in the acquisition workflow. myExam Companion builds consistency across scans from diverse operators and can reduce errors, like incorrect contrast media timing, imprecise anatomy coverage, or missed metal.

myNeedle Guide supports accurate planning and lesion targeting, increasing confidence and minimizing the need for repeat procedures, can reduce intervention duration by 39%, and reduce radiation dose as 65% fewer sequential control scans are needed during needle progression, on average.⁴

In a standard workflow, the automatically generated results are designed to be ready to read at the PACS, now with additional tools to support decision making. For example, with Interactive Spectral Imaging (ISI), toggling between iodine maps, VNC datasets, and changing keV levels of images is as easy as windowing. Radiologists can switch between spectral views on the fly with Syngo Carbon or other PACS.⁶ It’s all enabled by Quantum Spectral Technology that increases convenience and confidence. To make reading more flexible, simple, and consistent, radiologists can view the results generated by technologists using automation solutions like Recon&GO at multiple workstations, like at a standard PACS, using syngo.via or AI-Rad Companion Chest CT. For time-critical cases like stroke or trauma, images can be accessed as soon as the scans are completed at the acquisition workplace next to the scanner or via the myExam Satellite client.

Predefined reading layouts that automatically provide relevant information give radiologists quick access to patient data to support them in their diagnositc decisions. Complex cases can be analyzed using a wide variety of syngo.via advanced visualization applications. syngo.CT Coronary Cockpit⁷ is designed for automatic segmentation and labeling of the coronary tree, quantification of the total plaque burden, and analysis of plaque composition for coronary artery disease (CAD). AI-Rad Companion Chest CT performs AI-assisted analysis of datasets, including lung lobe segmentation, lung lesion detection, heart and aorta segmentation, report generation, and more.

Quantum Technology in the NAEOTOM Alpha class is leveraged by AI-powered applications that deliver seamless and comprehensive solutions for your clinical workflows without compromising reporting speed or adding to the workload of radiologists, as shown in a study⁸. Many of these AI-powered applications have been trained by data sets from over four years of photon-counting clinical experience. This can support the development of accurate and tailored diagnostic tools, with the aim to improve reading precision and reliability. This access to photon-counting CT data fosters innovation, accelerates model improvements, with the goal to achieve better patient outcomes. It has been shown that this valuable data can contribute to better performance and decision support.

myNeedle Companion supports accurate planning and lesion targeting, increasing confidence and minimizing the need for repeat procedures by 65%,⁴ on average. Fewer control scans also mean a reduced radiation dose. It can also reduce the duration of interventions by 39%,⁴ by harmonizing planning and guidance for targeted needle placement. The integrated solution aims to enable consistent results in standard and complex procedures.