Siemens’ Somatom On.site Head CT Scanner Integrated Into Mobile Stroke Unit

May 28, 2025—Siemens Healthineers announced the introduction in the United States of a mobile stroke unit (MSU) featuring the company’s Somatom On.site head CT scanner with the first MSU deployed at UCLA Health in Los Angeles, California.

The MSU is a specialized ambulance designed to quickly deliver advanced stroke care directly to patients to improve their chances of recovery, stated the company.

According to the company, Somatom On.site is integrated into the ambulance to streamline workflow, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and empower MSU teams to deliver timely, life-saving care. The mobile Somatom On.site head CT scanner in the MSU delivers image quality comparable to stationary CT scanners, advised Siemens Healthineers.

As described in Siemens’ press release, when a 911 call indicates a potential stroke, an MSU is dispatched alongside or instead of a standard ambulance. On arrival, the MSU care team conducts an on-scene CT scan to determine whether the stroke is ischemic or hemorrhagic. The care team consults with a stroke specialist via telemedicine to guide immediate treatment decisions.

May Nour, MD, Medical Director of the Arline and Henry Gluck Mobile Stroke Rescue Program at UCLA Health commented on this development in Siemens’ press release.

“Advancements in mobile stroke imaging represent a significant step forward in prehospital stroke care,” stated Dr. Nour. “Our commitment to innovative approaches in emergency medicine aims to improve patient outcomes through rapid assessment and treatment when every minute counts.”