Flat Panel Detectors: New System from Siemens

At the European Congress of Radiology (ECR) in Vienna, Austria, Siemens is introducing a new system for the mid-range price segment that can do both full-digital fluoroscopy and radiography. With its 2-in-1 functionality, Luminos Fusion with flat panel detector technology allows more effective use of fluoroscopy equipment in routine medical care. The flat panel detector enables faster examinations and patient throughput compared to the mid-range image intensifiers that have been available up to now. 

Working with current mid-range image intensifiers is time-consuming. Taking an X-ray requires inserting, removing, and replacing cassettes. As these cassettes have to be processed, patients have to wait longer for results. Luminos Fusion with flat panel detector technology has a 43x43 cm image surface providing full-digital, distortion-free X-ray and fluoroscopic images within seconds. The higher-quality images generated by the flat panel detector give radiologists better diagnostic information and provide images double the size of that of those achieved with typical image intensifiers. The flat panel detector also takes up less space than image intensifiers and makes it easier for medical personnel to position the patient.

The flat panel detector in Luminos Fusion was until now, only available in a higher range price segment. Combined with a more affordable system, the fully digital 2-in-1 technology is now available to an expanded customer base. This combination of

fluoroscopy and radiography equipment helps increase system use and avoid idle time. Since fluoroscopy patients typically need to fast before an examination employing contrast agents, for example, appointments are generally scheduled in the morning. A 2-in-1 system like Luminos Fusion is available in the afternoon for Xray imaging, so the equipment can be used at greater capacity.

Luminos Fusion's SmartTouch technology is designed for safety. To reduce the risk of unwanted movements, the joysticks require skin contact of the operator's hand, so the system cannot be moved accidentally. Luminos Fusion also features the Careposition functionality, which enables radiation-free positioning of the examination area to protect against unnecessary radiation. Graphics on the screen show the user the position of where a new image will be taken relative to the last image taken.