Comparing the Siemens Somatom Models

Siemens CT machines boasting a wide variety of options for varying budgets and uses. With the popularity of the Siemens Somatom models on the refurbished market among buyers and sellers comes a lot of questions on the details.

Why should I buy one of the Siemens Somatom models? What are their tube counts? Which Siemens Somatom model is best for cardiac studies?

In a nutshell, the AS and Edge are put in more practical scenarios than the Flash and Force, which are primarily used for specialized studies in cardiology. Additionally, the 64-, 128-, and 256-slice counts as well as the tubes that these systems are a huge selling point for potential buyers.

But that’s not all the information you should know about this line. Keep on reading to see our breakdown of the Siemens Somatom AS, Flash, Edge, and Force with details on their features, costs, and use cases.

1. Somatom Definition AS
2. Somatom Definition Flash
3. Somatom Definition Edge
4. Somatom Definition Force
5. How do I choose which system is best for me?

Note: Block Imaging provides refurbished CT machines and parts in order to give medical equipment a second chance at life. You can read about it in detail below or reach out to our sales team to learn more about how it can help improve diagnostic imaging.

Somatom Definition AS

• • Application: The Somatom Definition AS is known for its versatility in addressing a wide range of clinical applications, including routine diagnostic imaging, oncology, and cardiovascular imaging.
  • Speed: While it offers high-quality imaging, it might not be as fast as some of the newer models in the series.
  • Slice Count: Offer a variety of options for slices: 20, 40, 64 and 128.
  • Advanced Features: Has both a water cooled and air-cooled version.
  • Cost: Service costs are lower than the Flash/Force, but it still has an expensive tube.
  • Best for: Can perform a wide variety of studies.

Find this model in our product catalog:

Siemens Definition AS 40 Slice

Siemens Definition AS 128 Slice

Somatom Definition Flash

• • Speed: One of the defining features of the Flash model is its exceptional speed in image acquisition. It utilizes advanced technologies like the Stellar Detector to enable rapid scanning, reducing patient exposure to radiation and enhancing throughput.
  • Slice Count: Generally, a 256 slice (2x128).
  • Dual Source: Has two tubes which create amazing images, but that also means there are two $200,000 tubes that will go out in time, so it is expensive to service.
  • Cardiovascular Imaging: Flash models may offer specialized cardiovascular imaging capabilities, allowing for high-resolution imaging of the heart and vessels.
  • Dual Energy Imaging: Capable of performing dual-energy CT imaging, enabling enhanced tissue characterization and material differentiation.
  • Workflow Efficiency: Designed with features to streamline workflow and improve overall efficiency in the radiology department.
  • Cost: Expensive to buy, more expensive to service.
  • Best for: High end cardiac studies.

Find this model in our product catalog:

Siemens Definition Flash CT

Somatom Definition Edge

• • Resolution: The Edge model may offer improved spatial resolution compared to the AS model, enabling better visualization of anatomical structures.
  • Slices Count: Generally, 128 slices, although it could come in a 64.
  • Single Source: The Edge is like the AS, as it has one tube, but can still utilize Dual Energy.
  • Automation: Incorporates automation features such as patient positioning aids and automated post-processing tools to improve workflow efficiency.
  • Cost: Similar to the Definition AS, just a newer version.
  • Best for: A facility with a wide range of studies being performed.

Find this model in our product catalog:

Siemens Definition Edge

Somatom Definition Force

• • Power: The Definition Force model is characterized by its high-powered performance, capable of delivering exceptional image quality even in challenging imaging scenarios.
  • Slice Count: Generally, a 256 slice (2x128).
  • Dual Source Technology: Incorporates dual-source CT technology, which enhances temporal resolution and enables high-speed imaging of moving structures.
  • Cost: More expensive than the Edge, Flash, or AS, both to purchase and service.
  • Cost: Very pricey to buy and service, certainly the most expensive of the Somatom choices.
  • Best for: If you’re doing a lot of advanced cardiac studies, and money’s not a limiting factor, this may be a good choice for you.

How do I Choose which System is Best for Me?

Here’s some questions that may help guide your decision based on the choices we covered in this post:

• Do I need a system that can address a wide range of clinical applications like routine diagnostic imaging, oncology, and cardiovascular imaging?
• Is workflow efficiency and speed of capture a feature that you’re selecting for?
• Am I doing a lot of advanced cardiac studies?
• What is my budget?

If you need help determining the best model for you, we’d love to talk! When you reach out to Block Imaging for information on equipment, you can expect a team of project managers, customer service representatives, and project specialists to be invested in creating a solution for you that meets your needs.