Aquilion Precision

by Canon Medical Systems Corporation  · Based in Japan → — Ultra-High Resolution at standard CT dose.
Cardiology Neurology Radiology

Contact for pricing
Regulatory Status Disclosed

Overview

The Aquilion Precision is the world’s first Ultra-High Resolution CT (UHR CT) system, designed to deliver unprecedented image detail for precise diagnosis. It introduces a revolutionary approach to CT reconstruction by leveraging Deep Learning Neural Networks, specifically the Advanced intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE).

AiCE is trained on an advanced Model-Based Iterative Reconstruction (MBIR) algorithm to produce low noise, natural texture, and 0.25 mm, 1024 matrix Ultra-High Resolution CT images several times faster than traditional clinical MBIR. This system is capable of resolving anatomy as small as 150 microns (0.15 mm), providing image quality typically seen only in cath labs, and offers more than twice the resolution of conventional CT systems.

Key components include an advanced UHR detector system with 1,792 channels and 160 rows of 0.25 mm thickness, a UHR X-ray tube with an industry-smallest focal spot (0.4 mm x 0.5 mm), and UHR couch technology precise to within 100 microns. The system emphasizes dose efficiency, allowing for ultra-high resolution imaging within industry-standard Dose Reference Levels (DRLs).

Reviewed by Pouyan Golshani, MD — Interventional Radiologist

Key Features

  • Ultra-High Resolution CT (UHR CT) imaging
  • Advanced intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE) Deep Learning Reconstruction
  • Resolution of anatomy as small as 150 microns (0.15 mm)
  • Achieves UHR imaging at standard CT dose
  • UHR Detector System (0.25 mm x 160 rows, 1792 channels)
  • UHR X-ray Tube with industry's smallest focal spot (0.4 mm x 0.5 mm)
  • Routine 1024 x 1024 Reconstruction Matrix
  • Dose-efficient detector channels (0.25 mm thick)
  • UHR Couch Technology with 100-micron precision and 315 kg patient capacity
  • Optimized fast hybrid (AIDR 3D) and fully-iterative (FIRST) reconstruction algorithms

Use Cases

  • Enhanced visualization of disease
  • Detection of very small lesions and structures
  • Musculoskeletal (MSK) tumor pathology
  • Evaluation of vascular system for disease and collateral vessel scoring
  • Tumor staging and classification
  • Pre-surgical planning and post-surgical monitoring

What Physicians Need to Know

Supported Modality
Computed Tomography (CT)
AI Model Architecture
Advanced Intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE) Deep Learning Reconstruction (DLR) based on Deep Convolutional Neural Networks (DCNN). It's trained on high-quality images reconstructed with Model-Based Iterative Reconstruction (MBIR) to differentiate signal from noise, suppressing noise and enhancing signal.
FDA Clearance Pathway
510(k) clearance for both the Aquilion Precision CT system and its AiCE deep learning reconstruction technology (initially in April 2018 for the system and October/November 2019 for AiCE).
DICOM Support & Standards
Full DICOM support with available Conformance Statements (e.g., TSX-304A, V8.8, V10.10, V10.16). Supports secure DICOM communication with TLS (deactivated by default).
PACS Integration Method
Standard DICOM-based integration, ensuring interoperability with existing PACS and hospital networks.
Reading Room Workflow Impact
Enables ultra-high resolution CT imaging at standard CT doses, providing remarkably sharper images for more precise and potentially earlier diagnostic decisions. AiCE offers rapid reconstruction, several times faster than clinical MBIR, contributing to efficient workflow by quickly delivering high-quality images.
Processing Speed (per study)
Image reconstruction time is up to 80 images per second. AiCE delivers fast reconstruction, at least 4 times faster than Model-Based Iterative Reconstruction (MBIR).
Sensitivity & Specificity Data
Achieves equivalent or improved performance for lung cancer screening in high-resolution (HR) and super-high resolution (SHR) modes with AiCE DLR, compared to conventional systems. Provides dose neutrality compared to conventional resolution CT while preserving higher contrast spatial resolution. Low contrast detectability equivalent to normal resolution mode is achieved with no or modest dose increase, within ACR-AAPM DRLs. AiCE can also deliver exceptional dose reduction of up to 81% for routine exams.
RSNA/ACR Validation
The Aquilion Precision was presented at RSNA 2017. Performance data regarding low contrast detectability and dose are reported to be within ACR-AAPM Dose Reference Levels (DRLs). AiCE technology was unveiled at RSNA.
Physician Tip

Leverage the ultra-high resolution capabilities of Aquilion Precision, particularly with AiCE, to visualize fine anatomical details as small as 150 microns, which can be crucial for detecting subtle lesions and structures more precisely, especially in musculoskeletal and vascular imaging. The dose-neutrality or dose reduction benefits with maintained or improved image quality allow for confident use in routine imaging while adhering to ALARA principles. The rapid reconstruction speed of AiCE ensures that these high-quality images are available quickly, minimizing delays in diagnosis and workflow.

The system's adherence to DICOM standards ensures seamless integration with existing PACS and other hospital information systems. While specific advanced workflow automation features like INSTINX are more explicitly highlighted for newer Aquilion systems, the core DICOM interoperability facilitates image transfer and data management within a standard radiology IT infrastructure.

Details

Category Radiology & Imaging AI
Pricing Contact for pricing
DeploymentOn-premise (physical hardware)
Compliance
BAA AvailableUnknown AI-estimated
HIPAA CompliantUnknown AI-estimated
FDA Status 1 AI-estimated

The Aquilion Precision CT system received 510(k) clearance from the US FDA for clinical use in April 2018. Its Advanced Intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE) also received 510(k) clearance for the Aquilion Precision in October 2019. A more recent 510(k) clearance (K223726) for Aquilion Precision (TSX-304A/4) V10.14 with AiCE was granted on March 7, 2023.

Integrations
EHR Not specified
Specialties Cardiology, Neurology, Radiology

What the Web Says

The Canon Medical Systems' Aquilion Precision is lauded as the world's first Ultra-High Resolution CT (UHR CT) system, capable of resolving anatomy as small as 150 microns, offering significantly improved image detail and resolution compared to other CT scanners. It incorporates advanced technologies like the Advanced intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE), which utilizes deep learning reconstruction for enhanced anatomical resolution and image homogeneity. While praised for its image quality and dose efficiency, some users on Reddit have noted that the user interface can be less intuitive than competitors and that Canon scanners may not be the top choice for cardiac imaging compared to Siemens.

Overall: Positive

Strengths

  • Ultra-High Resolution (UHR) imaging, resolving anatomy as small as 150 microns.
  • More than double the resolution of typical CT scanners.
  • Advanced intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE) for improved anatomical resolution and image homogeneity.
  • Dose-efficient detector with 0.25 mm thick channels.
  • Industry's smallest Focal Spot Tube at 0.4 mm x 0.5 mm.
  • Routine 1024 x 1024 Reconstruction Matrix.

Limitations

  • User interface may be clunky and less intuitive compared to competitors like Siemens.
  • May not be the preferred choice for cardiac imaging compared to Siemens.
  • Slower with scanner feature advancements compared to some competitors.
  • Requires proper training on the UI to unlock its full potential.

Based on reviews from: Medical Device Network, Canon Medical Systems USA Inc., Canon Medical Systems Corporation, AuntMinnie, Canon Global, healthcare-in-europe.com, Reddit

Last updated: 2026-07-21

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Press & Coverage

The Imaging Wire
FDA Clears Canon Aquilion Precision CT System
Canon Medical Systems USA announced FDA clearance for its Aquilion Precision, the world's first Ultra-High Resolution CT system, capable of resolving anatomy as small as 150 microns. The system features a new UHR detector, tube, gantry, and reconstruction technologies to expand disease visualization.
2018-04
DAIC
Canon Medical Systems' Aquilion Precision CT Receives FDA Clearance
Canon Medical Systems USA Inc. received U.S. FDA clearance for the Aquilion Precision system, which they call the world's first Ultra-High Resolution CT (UHR CT) system, capable of resolving anatomy as small as 150 microns. It offers more than twice the resolution typically seen in cath labs and emphasizes dose efficiency.
2018-04
Applied Radiology
Aquilion Precision CT's AI-based image reconstruction technology from Canon is FDA approved
Canon Medical Systems USA's Advanced Intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE) for the Aquilion Precision ultra-high resolution CT system received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. FDA. AiCE uses a deep learning algorithm to suppress noise and enhance signal, allowing super-high resolution studies at doses equivalent to standard resolution CT.
2019-11
Canon Medical Systems USA
Canon Medical Systems' Aquilion Precision Receives FDA Clearance
Canon Medical Systems USA, Inc. announced that its Aquilion Precision, the world's first Ultra-High Resolution CT system, received FDA clearance. The system can resolve anatomy as small as 150 microns and provides more than double the resolution of current CT systems.
2018-04
Canon Medical Systems USA
Johns Hopkins Medicine First in U.S. to Install Canon Medical's Aquilion Precision
Johns Hopkins Medicine became the first in the U.S. to install Canon Medical Systems USA, Inc.'s Aquilion Precision, an Ultra-High Resolution CT system, for research capabilities. This system delivers twice the resolution of current CT systems and will be used for studies in liver disease, bone loss, lung disease, and coronary artery disease.
2019-03
AuntMinnie
Ultrahigh-resolution CT enhances image quality twofold
A study published in Radiology demonstrated that the Aquilion Precision ultrahigh-resolution CT scanner significantly enhanced image quality of in-stent restenosis in blood vessel phantoms without increasing radiation dose. Researchers from Osaka University found the system produced considerably higher spatial resolution and better overall image quality than conventional CT.
2018-07
Canon Global Medical Business
Advances in Diagnostic Imaging in the Field of Otolaryngology Made Possible by Ultra-High Resolution CT with AiCE
This report highlights clinical advances in otolaryngology due to the Aquilion Precision CT system and its Deep Learning Reconstruction technology, AiCE. The system's high spatial resolution and AiCE's noise reduction capabilities enable clearer visualization of thin bony structures and lesions.
unknown
PMC (PubMed Central)
Application of a Novel Ultra-High Resolution Multi-Detector CT in Quantitative Imaging of Trabecular Microstructure
This study evaluates the Canon Aquilion Precision UHR CT's performance in quantitatively assessing bone microarchitecture, capable of visualizing ~150 u03bcm details. It demonstrates improved visualization of trabeculae compared to conventional CT, suggesting potential for better quantification of trabecular microstructure.
unknown

Videos

Product demos, reviews, and walkthroughs for Aquilion Precision.

View all on YouTube

Frequently Asked Questions

The Aquilion Precision utilizes the Advanced Intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE), a deep learning reconstruction (DLR) technology, to significantly enhance image quality. AiCE differentiates signal from noise, suppressing noise while boosting the signal to deliver sharp, clear, and distinct ultra-high resolution images. This allows for visualization of anatomy as small as 150 microns, aiding in earlier disease detection and improved diagnostic confidence in areas like vascular imaging, tumor staging, and bone analysis.
The Aquilion Precision system, including its Advanced Intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE) deep learning reconstruction technology, has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This clearance confirms its safety and effectiveness for clinical use across various applications, including head, inner ear, abdomen, pelvis, lung, cardiac, and extremities.
Historically, ultra-high resolution CT faced challenges with increased image noise; however, AiCE addresses this by using deep learning to maintain image quality at standard CT dose levels. While the system excels in high-resolution modes, some studies suggest its normal resolution mode might perform slightly less optimally than comparable normal-resolution systems from the same vendor.
The Aquilion Precision, with its AiCE technology, offers twice the resolution of conventional CT systems, providing image detail typically seen only in cath labs. While other premium CT scanners from manufacturers like GE, Siemens, and Philips also incorporate advanced imaging and AI, Aquilion Precision's focus on ultra-high resolution with dose efficiency sets it apart for specific detailed anatomical visualization.
While specific pricing for the Aquilion Precision is not publicly listed, its classification as an Ultra-High Resolution CT system with advanced AI places it in the premium to ultra-premium tier of CT scanners. These systems typically range from $200,000 to over $900,000, depending on configuration, features, and whether it's a new or refurbished unit.
The Aquilion Precision system is designed and manufactured under strict quality system regulations, including 21 CFR u00a7 820 and ISO 13485 Standards, which encompass data security and privacy protocols. While the AI primarily focuses on image reconstruction, these regulatory frameworks ensure that patient data handled by the system adheres to established medical device security and privacy guidelines.
AiCE is designed for seamless integration into routine clinical practice, offering rapid zero-impact reconstruction. This deep learning technology can reconstruct high-quality images from low-dose data several times faster than traditional model-based iterative reconstruction, potentially improving workflow efficiency and providing radiologists with sharper images for interpretation without compromising scan times.

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Suggest an Edit → | Last Verified: 2026-04-20 | First Added: 2026-04-20
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