Siemens Somatom Drive CT Scanner

The Somatom Drive uses two X-ray tubes and two detectors mounted simultaneously on the rotating gantry, which allows it to acquire images at much higher temporal resolution than single-source CT scanners. This is especially valuable for imaging the beating heart, as it can effectively freeze cardiac motion.

Thanks to its dual-source design, the Somatom Drive can acquire a full cardiac scan in a single heartbeat, even at high heart rates that would be problematic for conventional CT scanners. Temporal resolution is on the order of 66 milliseconds per image.

Yes, the Somatom Drive incorporates Siemens' SAFIRE and ADMIRE iterative reconstruction technologies, which can significantly reduce radiation dose while maintaining image quality. The dual-source configuration also enables high-pitch scanning modes that complete acquisitions so quickly that dose is minimized.

It is commonly deployed for cardiovascular imaging, trauma assessments, and complex diagnostic studies where speed and low dose are critical. Its ability to scan at high pitch without gating makes it particularly suited for emergency departments and cardiac catheterization support.