Siemens Biograph PET/CT Scanners CompareD

Not sure which Siemens Pet/CT is right for you?

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the PET/CT world, understanding the intricacies of a PET/CT scanner is crucial before making your investment. In this detailed exploration, we'll center our attention on the Siemens Biograph PET/CT series.

Siemens is a prominent player in this arena and offers a diverse array of systems, each equipped with unique features, technology, and pricing. To make the most of your purchase, you'll want to evaluate features like software technology, imaging quality, and slice count, as well as your facility's patient throughput. 

We'll delve into the differences between models, help you decide which is the best for your requirements, and whether it's worth investing in the newest model or if a refurbished system will suffice. 

Here's what you need to know!

• Siemens Biograph Classic, Duo and 16
  
  
• Siemens Biograph Truepoint and HiRez
  
  
• Siemens Biograph MCT
  
  
• Siemens Biograph Horizon
  
  
• Siemens Biograph Vision

Siemens Biograph Classic, Duo, and 16 (2000-2005)

Siemens introduced the Siemens Biograph PET/CT series to the medical imaging world in the early 2000s through a partnership with CTI to create their first hybrid scanners. 

These systems combined the CTI Reveal PET scanner (branded as the Siemens ECAT Accel) with a choice of single-slice, dual-slice, or 16-slice CT scanners. 

This marked the inception of Siemens' journey into the world of PET/CT imaging.

Note: A majority of these systems have transitioned away from the installation market and are now primarily utilized for parts and maintenance purposes in other systems.

BEST FOR: Best for basic scanning procedures and reselling on the refurbishment market.

SPECS:

• 70 cm Gantry Opening
• 16 Slices
• 450 lbs Patient Limit
• Syngo

Siemens Biograph TruePoint and HiRez (2005-2012)

In 2005, Siemens took a significant step forward by introducing the Biograph 6 TruePoint, a mobile-ready high-definition PET scanner paired with the Emotion 6 CT scanner. 

This system was well suited for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) and mobile applications. They integrated the TruePoint technology into the 16-slice CT scanner in 2010.

In 2006, Siemens also introduced the Biograph 40 and 64 TruePoint systems. The main difference between the 6,16, 40, and 64 systems, are their cooling systems and CT used. The 6 and 16 use the air-cooled Emotion CT while the 40 and 64 systems use a water-cooled Sensation CT.

While not designed for mobile applications, these systems were capable of performing both cardiac PET and cardiac CT scans, expanding the scope of diagnostic possibilities.

The competitive landscape pushed Siemens to enhance its offerings. To compete with GE's Discovery STE 16s in mobile applications, Siemens introduced TruePoint technology to the Emotion 16 air-cooled gantry, providing a mobile-ready 16-slice PET/CT system.

BEST FOR: For myocardial perfusion imaging without flow, any TruePoint system will perform wonderfully.

SPECS:

• 70 cm Bore
• 450 lbs. Patient Weight Capacity
• 70 cm FOV
• 16, 40, 64 slight options

Siemens Biograph MCT (2009-present)

In 2009, Siemens introduced the Molecular CT (mCT) series featuring PET scanners in 20, 40, 64, and, for the first time, 128-slice configurations, all built upon the advanced Definition AS CT platform. 

The PET portion of these systems incorporated TruePoint technology with smaller and more sensitive crystals, enabling time-of-flight imaging. Time of flight was originally an option but seems to be standard now the way that electric windows are now on cars. 

Initially, in 2006, you could get TruePoint PETs with 3 or 4 rings. Today, TruePoint PETs with 4 rings are the norm, incorporating TrueV technology for enhanced speed and efficiency. 

BEST FOR: If you need to do Cardiac PET with flow, then you’ll want to look at systems that are part of the mCT family and above.

SPECS:

• 78 cm Bore
• FlowMotion AI
• TrueV extended PET FOV
• 20, 40, 64, 128 slices
• Time of Flight

Siemens Biograph Horizon (2015-present)

In 2015, Siemens introduced the Horizon 16 PET/CT system. These systems gained popularity with their low power requirements, compact footprint, air-cooled design, and mobile readiness. 

Engineered to produce excellent images and enhance efficiency, the Biograph Horizon offers clinical adaptability to serve numerous patient demographics.

They are highly sought-after for mobile trailers, although they remain relatively scarce in the secondary market compared to the mCT series.

BEST FOR: Medical facilities looking for a system with diverse clinical capabilities while not compromising on imaging quality or patient throughput.

SPECS:

• 70 cm Bore
• Ultra HD + PET + TrueV Technology
• 500 lbs. Patient Weight Capacity
• Available in 16 or 32 slices

Siemens Biograph Vision (2019-present)

The latest addition to the Biograph family is the Vision series, introduced in 2019. This system’s groundbreaking technology has reduced scan time and radiation exposure, increasing patient safety and comfort.

Siemens opted for digital photomultiplier sensors instead of tubes in these systems. Paired with Siemens Definition AS scanners, the Vision series offers 20 to 128-slice configurations. 

As of late 2024, these systems have just been introduced to the market.

BEST FOR: For facilities that prioritize cutting-edge technology and are looking to venture into AI technology, this system stands out as an exceptional option.

SPECS:

• 78 cm Bore
• FlowMotion AI
• Optiso UDR detector
• OncoFreeze AI

The Takeaway

Whether you prioritize advanced technology, enhanced imaging capabilities, or streamlined workflow efficiency, there's a variety of Siemens Biograph PET/CT systems to choose from.

Remember, it's important to evaluate each system through the lens of what software you're looking for, the image quality you need, and whether the speed of the system matches your patient throughput. 

We hope that our recommendations will help you confidently select the best system for your facility!

For more PET/CT resources check out the Block Imaging Learning Center.