Key Visual Siemens Healthineers Quantum Technology showirng the face of a middle-aged women, next to the abstract visualization of a photon-counting detector with its precise pulses

Photon-counting CT
A quantum leap in computed tomography

Capturing the information of every single photon

Quantum Technology^® is transforming CT by introducing photon-counting technology into clinical routine. At its core is the QuantaMax^® detector, which is equipped with a crystal semiconductor that is substantially different from a standard scintillation detector. QuantaMax detectors create CT images at high spatial resolution, without electronic noise, and with an improved contrast‐to‐noise ratio, intrinsic spectral information, and at a lower radiation dose.

Worth every effort: crafting perfect crystals

The purest cadmium telluride crystal is the starting point for a quantum leap in computed tomography technology. Years of research, development, and production have led to the generation of pure crystals with electrical properties that have revolutionized CT detector technology. Take a sneak peek into our crystal-growing lab, where the combination of innovation and craftsmanship is worth every effort.

The advantages of Quantum Technology

Improved detector efficiency with direct signal conversion

The crystal semi-conductor in the QuantaMax detector enables direct signal conversion by generating an electrical charge instead of light. Each of the tens of thousands of X-ray photons is individually measured in a single projection. The absorbed X‐rays create electron‐hole pairs in the semiconductor. The charges are separated in a strong electric field between the cathode on top of, and the pixelated anode electrodes at the bottom of the detector. This improves detector efficiency without a dose penalty as it does not require septa dividing the detector into pixels.

Smaller detector pixels
Elimination of noise
Intrinsic spectral sensitivity
Equal contribution of lower energy quanta

Smaller detector pixels

Designed with the smallest pixels ever used in a whole-body CT, Quantum Technology can deliver ultra-high-resolution images at full dose efficiency.

Elimination of electronic noise

As photon-counting detectors directly convert X-rays into electric charges which are not subject to decay and afterglow, this technology allows a clear distinction between signal and electronic noise – allowing the elimination of the latter.

Intrinsic spectral sensitivity

Measuring discrete photon energy levels in up to four energy bins means that the spectral information is captured for every exam.

Equal contribution of lower energy quanta

There is no down-weighting of low-energy photons in photon-counting detectors because each X-ray’s energy is measured, resulting in optimum image contrast and an increased iodine contrast-to-noise ratio.

Scientifically proven technology

Discover the full potential of NAEOTOM Alpha photon-counting CT.

Scientific sessions & publications

Quantum Technology in clinical routine

Abstract visualization of a photon-counting detector combined with a musculoskeletal clinical image

Redefine musculoskeletal CT

The high image quality and spectral information of photon-counting CT can advance bone and joint imaging, and the detection of soft tissue abnormalities or early-stage pathologies.

Redefine pediatric CT

CT scans without sedation is routine with photon-counting CT. It’s also possible to lower dose for this sensitive patient group without compromising image quality.

Coronary view of a Quantum HD cardiac cVRT image acquired by a NAEOTOM Alpha photon-counting CT scanner

Redefine cardiovascular CT

Intrinsic spectral imaging can visualize impressive details of small structures, allowing additional patients to be addressed, including those with heavy calcification or stents.

Axial view of a mono-energetic Quantum HD abdominal image of liver, pancreas, kidney, and spleen acquired by a NAEOTOM Alpha photon-counting CT scanner.

Redefine oncology CT

Low-dose spectral imaging can change the game in observing tumor development and metastases, and in delivering better patient care.

Sagittal view of a Quantum HD head image with a surgical implant, acquired by a NAEOTOM Alpha photon-counting CT

Redefine neurology CT

Improved image contrast and higher spatial resolution can increase confidence when assessing small anatomical details, even in the smallest cerebral blood vessels.

Spectral high-res lung CTA taken with a NAEOTOM Alpha photon-counting CT scanner.

Redefine pulmonology CT

Highest resolution with reduced radiation exposure and inherent spectral information are the basis for uncompromised evaluation of vulnerable patients with lung disease.

Photon-counting CTA quantum leap in computed tomography