Siemens Healthcare has announced that the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) has cleared the SOMATOM Scope, a new 16-slice computed tomography (CT) scanner. It is a new addition to the SOMATOM family of CT scanners. The SOMATOM Scope is available in two configurations-Scope and Scope Power. It enables healthcare providers to comply with the NEMA XR-29 Smart Dose Standard, ensuring a safer imaging experience for patients.

"By adding the Scope to our portfolio of SOMATOM CT scanners, we help bring CT imaging closer to the point of care, enabling our customers to focus on what matters the most: improving care through more informed, timely clinical decision-making," said Mr Murat Gungor, vice president, computed tomography and radiation Oncology business management at Siemens Healthcare. He added, "The SOMATOM Scope helps to ensure that a greater segment of the patient population has access to innovative technologies while enabling facilities to help control costs as well as save time and effort throughout their daily routine."

The SOMATOM Scope is designed for use in routine diagnostic imaging as well as oncological examinations, interventional radiology, and vascular imaging, and the more robust SOMATOM Scope Power with its stronger X-ray tube, higher performance generator, and faster rotation speed is ideal for higher volume clinical settings.

The new device utilizes Siemens' breakthrough IRIS (Iterative Reconstruction in Image Space) technology, which accelerates image reconstruction while reducing noise and artifacts. And the system's Adaptive Signal Boost technology amplifies low signals when high attenuation is present.

It also includes Siemens FAST (Fully Assisting Scanner Technology) and CARE (Combined Applications to Reduce Exposure) applications to help reduce radiation exposure and standardize the CT imaging process - freeing up more time for technologists to interact with patients.