In short. Choosing a CT scanner depends on the studies you will run, the space you have and the requirements you must meet. Start with slice count, dose-reduction tools, cooling system and software options. Then compare the refurbishment level, tube life and coverage, warranty and service cost, and plan the room early. This guide helps you reach the supplier conversation with a clear must-have list.
Get the full guide free on WhatsApp
Which CT do I need?
- Slice count: refurbished systems usually range from 2 to 64 slices, sometimes 128, 256 or 320. More slices means faster scans and more capability, but also higher upfront and service costs; a 64-slice may not pay off without advanced cardiac or brain studies.
- Dose reduction: automatic exposure control (AEC) and iterative reconstruction (IR). Each OEM names them differently: GE ASiR and AutomA/SmartmA, Philips DoseRight, Siemens SAFIRE/iRIS and CARE Dose4D, Toshiba AIDR and SURE Exposure.
- Cooling: air-cooled (less maintenance, no external chiller) or water-cooled (quieter, more stable room; needs a water connection).
- Software: cardiac options (common on 64-slice), perfusion, dental, oncology and others by specialty.
Refurbishment: three levels
| Level | What it includes |
|---|---|
| As-is | Basic inspection and testing; bought in its current condition |
| Cosmetic | The above plus deep cleaning, dent repair, paint and new logos |
| Full | Decontamination and patient data removal, evaluation with test scans, cosmetic restoration, component replacement and OEM calibration |
Always ask for the list of refurbishment steps. If you work with an ISO-certified vendor, it will be a document they have on hand. We are currently working on obtaining these certifications.
What drives value
- Tube life: tubes are expensive to replace; more remaining life means more value.
- Tube coverage: full, prorated or none, depending on budget and risk appetite.
- Manufacturer: supply and demand, plus local availability of parts and engineers, affect price and service cost.
- Warranty or service plan: from first-scan and 30-day warranties to one- to five-year plans.
- Accessories and training: injectors, ECG gating monitors, workstations and applications training.
Plan the room
Bring in your architect, electrician and HVAC team early: most CT scanners need three-phase power, the room must be lead-shielded and the control room needs a leaded window and door. Water-cooled systems need chiller lines. After installation and calibration, a physicist must check the system before patients are scanned, and your IT team must prepare the PACS connection.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary too much for a single figure: they depend on slices, software, refurbishment, tube, manufacturer, warranty and room preparation. At Solmedic every project is price on request. Financing from 3 to 12 months (max. 24) with a minimum 40% down payment, subject to approval.
What the full guide includes
The full CT buyer's guide covers choosing slices and software, refurbishment levels, warranty and tube coverage options and step-by-step room and installation planning. We'll send it as a PDF on WhatsApp, no strings attached. (Guide in Spanish.)
FAQ
16 or 64 slices? 16 covers most general studies; 64 makes sense for advanced cardiac or neuro work.
Air or water cooling? Air for less maintenance; water for a quieter, more stable room if the connection is available.
What should I prepare in the room? Three-phase power, lead shielding, HVAC, network for PACS and, if needed, water for the chiller.
Is financing available? Yes, 3 to 12 months (max. 24) with a minimum 40% down payment, subject to approval.
Prefer to call? Reach us at +58 412-4345457.
