Body size and tube voltage-dependent guiding equations for optimal selection of image acquisition parameters in clinical X-ray imaging

The purpose of this work was to present body size and tube voltage-dependent equations for optimal selection of image acquisition parameters in guiding clinical X-ray imaging. The dose output of X-ray tubes was expressed as a function of the image acquisition parameters of tube voltage (kVp), tube current–exposure time product (mAs), and body size (d). Dose power (n) to kVp was determined to be a linear function of body size in an earlier phantom study. Tube voltage-dependent attenuation coefficients of water were used to determine the kVp effect on the depth dose of X-rays from the body’s entrance surface. The new expression for the dose output of X-ray tubes in patients was then employed for image quality and radiation dose optimization, assuming that image quality is a logistic function of the radiation dose to patients. For constant kVp, the percentage of mAs increase for a 1-cm increase in body size d is dependent on the kVp applied. For constant mAs, the percentage of kVp increase for a 1-cm increase in body size is dependent on both body size d and the kVp applied. For constant body size, the percentage of kVp increase should be a fraction of the percentage of decrease in the mAs, where the fraction is dependent on the body size. The improved body size and tube voltage-dependent governing equations for variations in X-ray imaging parameters should be more accurate in guiding optimal selection of the kVp and mAs image acquisition parameters in medical X-ray imaging.     

降低儿童16层螺旋CT检查辐射剂量的研究

目的论证CT扫描参数kVp和mAs与剂量和图像噪声的关系,在不影响临床诊断的基础上,修正并验证一种基于成人扫描参数的安全可行的儿童16层螺旋CT检查的扫描参数。方法利用16层螺旋CT,采用标准CT剂量指数(CTDI)测试仪、100mm笔型电离室,分别测量16cm和32cm直径模体在2mm×5mm准直宽度时不同kVp和mAs的CTDI;采用20cm标准水模,测量单一感兴趣区域(ROI)标准偏差值SD代表噪声水平。以成人扫描参数的不同百分比修正为不同年龄段儿童CT扫描的参数供临床验证。结果随着kVp和mAs的增加,CTDI随之增加,并与mAs呈线性关系;16cm直径模体的表面CTDI要高于32cm模体58%;实际的加权CTDIw值高于CT扫描仪显示的CTDIw;mAs相同时,kVp越高,图像噪声SD值越低,在kVp固定时,随着mAs的增加,图像噪声SD随之减少,当mAs增加到一定程度后,图像噪声趋向平稳。结论在不影响临床诊断的图像噪声水平下,根据年龄和体型特点,儿童16层CT检查mAs可以比成人降低10%～85%。     

Optimization of chest radiographic imaging parameters: a comparison of image quality and entrance skin dose for digital chest radiography systems

We studied the performance of three computed radiography and three direct radiography systems with regard to the image noise and entrance skin dose based on a chest phantom. Images were obtained with kVp of 100, 110, and 120 and mA settings of 1, 2, 4, 8, and 10. Significant differences of image noise were found in these digital chest radiography systems (P<.0001). Standard deviation was significantly different when the mAs were changed (P<.001), but it was independent of the kVp values (P=.08-.85). Up to 44% of radiation dose could be saved when kVp was reduced from 120 to 100 kVp without compromising image quality.     

Fact or fiction: An analysis of the 10 kVp ‘rule’ in computed radiography

PurposeTo determine whether increasing the tube voltage by 10 kVp whilst reducing the tube current by 50% (10 kVp ‘rule’) produces similar perceptual image quality.Method391 matched pairs of anthropomorphic chest phantom X-ray images were produced on a computed radiography (CR) system. Five experienced clinicians graded the images using a 2 alternative forced choice comparison method. Based on acquisition parameters and dose area product (DAP) readings, effective dose (E) was calculated for all images using dose calculation software.ResultsPerceptual image quality scores prior to and following application of the 10 kVp ‘rule’ were found have no statistical difference (p > 0.1), indicating that the increase in kVp and reduction in mAs had limited impact on the perceptual image quality. In all cases E reduced, with an average 36% (s.d 7%) after the ‘rule’ had been applied (p < 0.001).ConclusionResults demonstrate that application of the 10 kVp ‘rule’ significantly reduces E, with no significant reduction in perceptual image quality. Further research should be conducted for a range of examinations using CR and digital radiography (DR) systems.     

The effect of X-ray tube potential on the image quality of PA chest radiographs when using digital image acquisition devices

The rapid development in digital acquisition technology in radiography has not been accompanied by information regarding optimum radiographic technique for use with newly developed systems. Three of the most common technologies for digital radiographic examinations of the chest are flat panel amorphous Silicon Caesium Iodide systems (FPD), amorphous Selenium drums (DSD) and photostimulable storage phosphor computed radiography (CR). Published data on the effect of X-ray beam energy on image quality and patient dose when using these digital image acquisition devices are reviewed. It is important that radiographers are aware of optimum kVp selection for these systems, particularly for the commonly performed chest examination.     

Optimisation of the AP abdomen projection for larger patient body thicknesses

IntroductionThis study aims to identify optimal exposure parameters, delivering the lowest radiation dose while maintaining images of diagnostic quality for the antero-posterior (AP) abdomen x-ray projection in large patients with an AP abdominal diameter of >22.3 cm.MethodologyThe study was composed of two phases. In phase 1, an anthropomorphic phantom (20 cm AP abdominal diameter) was repetitively radiographed while adding 3 layers (5 cm thick each) of fat onto the phantom reaching a maximum AP abdominal diameter of 35 cm. For every 5 cm thickness, images were taken at 10 kVp (kilovoltage peak) intervals, starting from 80 kVp as the standard protocol currently in use at the local medical imaging department, to 120 kVp in combination with the use of automatic exposure control (AEC). The dose area product (DAP), milliampere-second (mAs) delivered by the AEC, and measurements to calculate the signal to noise ratio (SNR) and contrast to noise ratio (CNR) were recorded. Phase 2 included image quality evaluation of the resultant images by radiographers and radiologists through absolute visual grading analysis (VGA). The resultant VGA scores were analysed using visual grading characteristics (VGC) curves.ResultsThe optimal kVp setting for AP abdominal diameters at: 20 cm, 25 cm and 30 cm was found to be 110 kVp increased from 80 kVp as the standard protocol (with a 56.5% decrease in DAP and 76.2% in mAs, a 54.2% decrease in DAP and 76.2% decrease in mAs and a 29.2% decrease in DAP and 59.7% decrease in mAs, respectively). The optimal kVp setting for AP abdominal diameter at 35 cm was found to be 120 kVp increased from 80 kvp as the standard protocol (with a 50.7% decrease in DAP and 73.4% decrease in mAs). All this was achieved while maintaining images of diagnostic quality.ConclusionTailoring the exposure parameters for large patients in radiography of the abdomen results in a significant reductions in DAP which correlates to lower patient doses while still maintaining diagnostic image quality.Implications for clinical practiceThis research study and resultant parameters may help guide clinical departments to optimise AP abdomen radiographic exposures for large patients in the clinical setting.     

基于蒙特卡罗数学模型两种脊柱全景X射线成像技术受检者辐射剂量的对比研究

目的 比较两种脊柱全景X射线成像技术对受检者产生的辐射剂量。方法 使用仿真体模进行实验,摸索出该体模在日本岛津Sonialvision safire17设备Slot scan脊柱全景成像的适宜成像条件,然后在GE Discovery XR650型DR系统上对该体模进行不同曝光条件的DR脊柱全景成像,3位有经验的放射科医生对两种成像技术的图像进行评分,选择图像质量评分均值最接近的对应成像参数为实验成像参数。将相关成像参数及X射线机信息输入PCXMC 2.0软件,计算受检者脊柱全景成像的器官吸收剂量和有效剂量。结果 Slot scan脊柱全景成像的适宜成像条件为高质量全景成像模式(HQ模式)、SID 150 cm、100 kVp和2 mAs, DR手动曝光模式脊柱全景成像相当图像质量的成像条件为SID 200 cm、100 kVp和3.2 mAs。Slot scan HQ模式、DR手动曝光模式和DR自动曝光模式脊柱全景成像的有效剂量(E)分别为(0.118 7±0.001 4)、(0.084 7±0.000 8)和(0.158 0±0.001 5) mSv,DR手动曝光模式的有效剂量明显低于其余2种模式(F=3 007.293,P<0.05);除乳腺以外,DR手动曝光模式的器官剂量均低于Slot scan HQ模式的器官剂量(P<0.05);除甲状腺、食管、肺以外,DR自动曝光模式的器官剂量均高于另外两种成像方式的器官剂量(P<0.05)。结论 两种手动全景成像技术的辐射剂量均处于较低水平,合理选择全景成像技术的曝光参数和模式可实现低剂量全景X射线成像。     

Dosimetry and adequacy of CT-based attenuation correction for pediatric PET: phantom study

PURPOSE: To evaluate the dose from the computed tomographic (CT) portion of positron emission tomography (PET)/CT to determine minimum CT acquisition parameters that provide adequate attenuation correction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Measurements were made with a PET/CT scanner or a PET scanner, five anthropomorphic phantoms (newborn to medium adult), and an ionization chamber. The CT dose was evaluated for acquisition parameters (10, 20, 40, 80, 160 mA; 80, 100, 120, 140 kVp; 0.5 and 0.8 second per rotation; 1.5:1 pitch). Thermoluminescent dosimetry was used to evaluate the germanium 68/gallium 68 rod sources. A phantom study was performed to evaluate CT image noise and the adequacy of PET attenuation correction as a function of CT acquisition parameters and patient size. RESULTS: The volumetric anthropomorphic CT dose index varied by two orders of magnitude for each phantom over the range of acquisition parameters (0.30 and 21.0 mGy for a 10-year-old with 80 kVp, 10 mAs, and 0.8 second and with 140 kVp, 160 mAs, and 0.8 second, respectively). The volumetric anthropomorphic CT dose index for newborn phantoms was twice that for adult phantoms acquired similarly. The rod source dose was 0.03 mGy (3-minute scan). Although CT noise varied substantially among acquisition parameters, its contribution to PET noise was minimal and yielded only a 2% variation in PET noise. In a pediatric phantom, PET images generated by using CT performed with 80 kVp and 5 mAs for attenuation correction were visually indistinguishable from those generated by using CT performed with 140 kVp and 128 mAs. With very-low-dose CT (80 kVp, 5 mAs) for the adult phantom, undercorrection of the PET data resulted. CONCLUSION: For pediatric patients, adequate attenuation correction can be obtained with very-low-dose CT (80 kVp, 5 mAs, 1.5:1 pitch), and such correction leads to a 100-fold dose reduction relative to diagnostic CT. For adults undergoing CT with 5 mAs and 1.5:1 pitch, the tube voltage needs to be increased to 120 kVp to prevent undercorrection.     

X射线胸部摄影曝光剂量与图像质量相关性研究

目的 研究数字化X射线胸部高千伏摄影曝光剂量与图像质量的关系,确定数字化X射线摄影最佳曝光剂量。方法 选择胸部高千伏摄影管电压120 kV,摄影mAs从1 mAs逐档增加至25 mAs,对模拟人体胸部厚度摄影体模与CDRAD 2.0对比度细节体模进行摄影,测量体模表面X射线入射剂量,由5位观察者独立阅读体模影像,比较任意两曝光条件组之间的图像质量因子（IQF）,确定高千伏胸部摄影最佳条件。比较4和10 mAs条件下正常人体胸部摄影图像质量评分。结果 胸部高千伏摄影体模曝光条件从1 mAs增加到25 mAs,体模表面X射线入射剂量从0.067 mGy增加至1.468 mGy。随着X射线入射剂量的增加,影像质量影响因子IQF值不断减小,观察者阅读体模信号的IQF差异有统计学意义（F=31.00,P<0.05）,曝光剂量条件选择在1~4 mAs时所对应的IQF均值差异有统计学意义（F=15.3,P<0.05）,4~10 mAs时所对应的IQF差异无统计学意义,10~25 mAs时所对应的IQF均值差异有统计学意义（F=9.74,P<0.05）。曝光剂量条件选择4和10 mAs所对应的体模表面入射剂量为0.250和0.606 mGy,两种条件下胸部图像质量的综合评分分别为（24.8±1.64）、（25.8±2.05）分,差异无统计学意义。结论 随着数字化X射线摄影剂量的增加所获得图像信息量增加。满足临床诊断的标准人体胸部高千伏数字化X摄影最佳剂量为0.250 mGy左右。     

常规CT 的放射剂量最优化

目的：优化患者CT扫描参数,减少其辐射危害。方法以成人头部,胸部和腹部CT扫描为考察对象,应用CT专用16 cm直径CTDI测量模体,改变kVp和 mAs组合,测量所扫描图像的噪声,高对比分辨率,低对比分辨率等,以此为依据决定图像是否合格,并从合格影像中选出辐射剂量最小的一组kVp/mAs做为最优化结果。结果在噪声,高对比分辨率,低对比分辨率等都合格的情况下,各部位辐射剂量最小的一组kVp/mAs分别是：130/90（成人头部）,110/70（成人胸部）,130/65（成人腹部）。其辐射剂量相对设备预设条件下的辐射剂量下降百分比分别是：25．0％,12．0％和34．3％。结论体模实验证明,合理组合kVp和mAs设置可以在保证图像质量的情况下降低CT辐射剂量,从而为临床实际的CT剂量最优化提供借鉴。     

Fractal-feature distance analysis of radiographic image

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: We have conducted a fractal analysis of low-dose digital chest phantom radiographs and evaluated the relationship between the fractal-feature distance and the tube current-exposure time product. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Chest phantom radiographs were obtained at various mAs values (0.5-4.0 mAs) and 140 kVp with a computed radiography system, and the reference images were acquired at 13 mAs. The lung field images were converted to binary images after processing them using the rolling-ball technique; a fractal analysis was conducted using the box-counting method for these binary images. The fractal-feature distances between the low-dose and reference images were calculated using the fractal dimension and the complexity. RESULTS: For all binary images of lung fields, the relationship between the length of the square boxes and the number of boxes needed to cover the positive pixels of the binary image was linear on a log-log scale (r > or = 0.99). For mAs > or = 3.0, the fractal-feature distances were almost constant, whereas for mAs < or = 2.5, they increased depending on the reduction in mAs values. CONCLUSION: We have shown that a binary image of the lung field obtained from a chest phantom radiograph can be analyzed by the box-counting method and that its fractal-feature distance grows as the radiation dose declines.     

A multi institutional comparison of imaging dose and technique protocols for neonatal chest radiography

IntroductionThe focus on paediatric radiation dose reduction supports reevaluation of paediatric imaging protocols. This is particularly important in the neonates where chest radiographs are frequently requested to assess respiratory illness and line placement. This study aims to assess the impact of neonatal chest radiographic protocols on patient dose in four hospitals in different countries.MethodsExposure parameters, collimation, focus to skin distance (FSD) and radiation dose from 200 neonatal chest radiographs were registered prospectively. Inclusion criteria consisted of both premature and full-term neonates weighing between 1000 and 5000 g. Only data from the examinations meeting diagnostic criteria and approved for the clinical use were included. Radiation dose was assessed using dose area product (DAP).ResultsThe lowest DAP value (4.58 mGy cm²) was recorded in the Norwegian hospital, employing a high kVp, low mAs protocol using a DR system. The Canadian hospital recorded the highest DAP (9.48), using lower kVp and higher mAs with a CR system, including the addition of a lateral projection. The difference in the mean DAP, weight, field of view (FOV) and kVp between the hospitals is statistically significant (p < 0.001).ConclusionUse of non-standardised imaging protocols in neonatal chest radiography results in differences in patient dose across hospitals included in the study. Using higher kVp, lower mAs and reducing the number of lateral projections to clinically relevant indications result in a lower DAP measured in the infant sample studied. Further studies to examine image quality based on exposure factors and added filtration are recommended.Implications for practiceReevaluation of paediatric imaging protocols presents an opportunity to reduce patient dose in a population with increased sensitivity to ionising radiation.     

Radiation dose reduction and image quality in pediatric abdominal CT with kVp and mAs modulation and an iterative reconstruction technique

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to compare the radiation dose and image quality of pediatric abdominal computed tomography (CT) using a protocol reconstructed with filtered back projection (FBP) and a protocol with both kVp and mAs modulation and sinogram-affirmed iterative reconstruction (SAFIRE).Materials and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed pediatric abdominal CT examinations performed with both kVp and mAs modulation. These raw data were reconstructed with SAFIRE at different strengths from 2 to 4 (SAFIRE groups 2–4). Another set of age/sex-matched pediatric abdominal CT examinations were also reviewed, which were performed during the same period with only mAs modulation and FBP (control group). The radiation dose and image quality were compared between groups. The image quality was objectively evaluated as the noise measured in the liver, aorta, and spleen at the level of the main portal vein and the image quality was subjectively reviewed by two radiologists for diagnostic acceptability using a four-point scale (0: unacceptable; 1: worse than the control group, but acceptable; 2: comparable with the control group; and 3: better than the control group). An independent t test was used in order to compare the radiation dose. An independent t test with Bonferroni correction and generalized estimating equations were used for the comparison of the objective and subjective image quality, respectively.ResultsTwenty-nine patients (M:F=19:10; mean age, 10.0 years) were enrolled in each group. The SAFIRE group, using the size-specific dose estimates calculation method showed a 64.2% radiation dose reduction (from 8.1 to 2.9 mGy, P< .05), compared with the results of the control group. The objective image noise of the SAFIRE groups 2 and 3 was comparable to that of the control group. The subjective image quality was the best in SAFIRE group 3 [odds ratio (OR) 3.015, P< .001 when comparing to SAFIRE group 0; OR 1.513, P< .001 when comparing to SAFIRE group 2].ConclusionsImage acquisition with both kVp and mAs modulation and iterative reconstruction using SAFIRE with strength 3 can preserve the objective and subjective image quality of pediatric abdominal CT scans with less than half the radiation dose.     

An option for optimising the radiographic technique for horizontal beam lateral (HBL) hip radiography when using digital X-ray equipment

AimTo investigate the optimum technique for the horizontal beam lateral (HBL) hip projection considering image quality and radiation dose.MethodsUsing digital radiography equipment an anthropomorphic phantom was positioned for a HBL projection of the hip. Radiographic exposures were undertaken across a range of acquisition parameters (tube potentials, source to image distances, object to detector distances, with and without an anti-scatter radiation grid/additional copper filtration). Each acquisition combination was imaged three times and the dose area product (DAP) and post-AEC mAs recorded. 168 images were acquired. A single observer evaluated five anatomical areas on all images using a two-alternative force choice technique. The reference image was selected based on the current locally accepted technique. 50 images out of the original 168 were independently assessed by a further four observers to ensure reliability of the results.ResultsImage quality, when comparing all the images to the reference, was improved on in two cases; however the radiation dose had increased. 18 images had equal image quality with some having an 80% reduction in the DAP. In terms of the diagnostic acceptability, 51 were considered acceptable with a lower radiation dose.ConclusionBy optimising acquisition factors for the HBL hip projection the radiation dose to the patient can be reduced. Based on the findings the factors proposed for HBL hip projections are 90 kVp, 135 cm SID, 45 cm ODD, grid and 0.1 mm copper filtration.     

数字X线成像系统图像质量影响因素的实验研究

目的 比较非晶体硒平板探测器DR系统和CR系统的图像噪声、空间分辨率和入射体表剂量（ESD），研究数字X线图像质量影响因素的相关性。方法 采用相同管电压（125kVp）和不同mAs对仿真胸部体模用分辨率测试卡进行DR和CR曝光成像，测量ESD、空间分辨率，计算均方根（RMS）值，分析mA8、ESD、RMS及空间分辨率之间的变化关系。结果 两种系统的RMS随mAs的增加而降低，ESD随mAs的增加而增加。两种系统成像相同ESD时，DR的RMS略高于CR。ESD增加至一定量时，空间分辨率达到极限值（CR为3．1lp／mm，DR为3．4lp／mm）。结论 数字系统放射线剂量的改变会导致噪声、分辨率变化。适度的噪声水平对空间分辨率影响不明显。     

Effect of radiation dose and iterative reconstruction on lung lesion conspicuity at MDCT: Does one size fit all?

Objective

To evaluate the effect of different acquisition parameters and reconstruction algorithms in lung lesions conspicuity in chest MDCT.

Methods

An anthropomorphic chest phantom containing 6 models of lung disease (ground glass opacity, bronchial polyp, solid nodule, ground glass nodule, emphysema and tree-in-bud) was scanned using 80, 100 and 120 kVp, with fixed mAs ranging from 10 to 110. The scans were reconstructed using filtered back projection (FBP) and iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithms. Three blinded thoracic radiologists reviewed the images and scored lesions conspicuity and overall image quality. Image noise and radiation dose parameters were recorded.

Results

All acquisitions with 120 kVp received a score of 3 (acceptable) or higher for overall image quality. There was no significant difference between IR and FBP within each setting for overall image quality (p > 0.05), even though image noise was significantly lower using IR (p < 0.0001). When comparing specific lower radiation acquisition parameters 100 kVp/10 mAs [Effective Dose (ED): 0.238 mSv] vs 120 kVp/10 mAs (ED: 0.406 mSv) vs 80 kVp/40 mAs (ED: 0.434 mSv), we observed significant difference in lesions conspicuity (p < 0.02), as well as significant difference in overall image quality, independent of the reconstruction algorithm (p < 0.02), with higher scores on the 120 kV/10 mAs setting. Tree-in-bud pattern, ground glass nodule and ground glass opacity required lower radiation doses to get a diagnostic score using IR when compared to FBP.

Conclusion

Designing protocols for specific lung pathologies using lower dose acquisition parameters is feasible, and by applying iterative reconstruction, radiologists may have better diagnostic confidence to evaluate some lesions in very low dose settings, preserving acceptable image quality.     

Reducing the radiation dose during excretory urography: flat-panel silicon x-ray detector versus computed radiography

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to examine the possibilities for reducing radiation exposure in uroradiology using digital flat-panel silicon X-ray detector radiography. We compared the subjectively determined image quality of abdominal radiographs and urograms obtained on a digital flat-panel detector radiography system with those obtained on a computed radiography system. SUBJECTS AND METHODS. Fifty patients who had a clinical indication for urography underwent unenhanced abdominal imaging that was alternately performed using flat-panel silicon X-ray detector radiography or computed radiography. For patients who required a second radiograph with contrast medium, the examination modality was changed to avoid exposing the patients to excess radiation. The images obtained on flat-panel X-ray detector radiography were obtained at half the radiation dose of the images obtained on computed radiography (800 speed vs 400 speed). The resulting 50 pairs of images were interpreted by four independent observers who rated the detectability of structures of bone and the efferent urinary tract relevant to diagnosis and compared the image quality. RESULTS: At half the radiation dose, digital flat-panel X-ray detector radiography provided equivalent image quality of the liver and spleen, lumbar vertebrae 2 and 5, pelvis, and psoas margin on abdominal radiographs. The image quality obtained with digital flat-panel X-ray detector radiography of the kidneys, the hollow cavities of the upper efferent urinary tract, and the urinary bladder was judged to be statistically better than those obtained with computed radiography. CONCLUSION: With half the exposure dose of computed radiography, the flat-panel X-ray detector produced urograms with an image quality equivalent to or better than computed radiography.     

Optimization of computed tomography (CT) arthrography of hip for the visualization of cartilage: an in vitro study

Objective

We sought to optimize the kilovoltage, tube current, and the radiation dose of computed tomographic arthrography of the hip joint using in vitro methods.

Materials and methods

A phantom was prepared using a left femoral head harvested from a patient undergoing total hip arthroplasty and packed in a condom filled with iodinated contrast. The right hip joint of a cadaver was also injected with iodinated contrast. The phantom and the cadaver were scanned using different values of peak kilovoltage (kVp) and tube current (milliamp seconds, mAs). Three different regions of interest (ROI) were drawn in the cartilage, subchondral bone plate, and intraarticular contrast. The attenuation values, contrast/noise ratio (CNR), and effective dose were calculated. Two independent observers classified the quality of the contrast-cartilage interface and the cartilage-subchondral bone plate interface as (1) diagnostic quality or (2) nondiagnostic quality.

Results

Contrast, cartilage, and subchondral bone plate attenuation values decreased at higher kVp. CNR increased with both kVp and mAs. The qualitative analysis showed that in both phantom and cadaver, at 120 kVp and 50 mAs, the contrast-cartilage and cartilage-subchondral bone plate interfaces were of diagnostic quality, with an effective dose decreased to 0.5 MSv.

Conclusions

The absolute effective dose is not directly related to the quality of images but to the specific combination of kVp and mAs used for image acquisition. The combination of 120 kVp and 50 mAs can be suggested to decrease the dose without adversely affect the visibility of cartilage and subchondral bone plate.     

数字乳腺X线摄影中管电流量与影像质量的关系

目的探讨数字乳腺X线摄影中不同乳腺压迫厚度时管电流量与影像质量的关系。方法全数字乳腺摄影机中采用钼-铑靶滤过组合,对2~7 cm厚度的CDMAM模体选择适宜的管电压,不同管电流量下,进行手动曝光,参数(压迫厚度、管电压、管电流量)设定分别为2 cm、27 kVp、10~90 mAs,3 cm、29 kVp、20~120 mAs,4 cm、29 kVp、20~200 mAs,5 cm、30 kVp、40~220 mAs,6 cm、31 kVp、40~260 mAs和7 cm、32 kVp、80~280 mAs,计算图像影像质量因子(IQF)、对比噪声比(CNR),记录平均腺体剂量(AGD)。通过计算品质因子(FOM),找出各种厚度下最优管电流量及对应的AGD。根据2~7 cm压迫厚度下优化参数表和机器在各种厚度下自动曝光特性,列出2~7 cm厚度下自动曝光参数调整表。同时对不同厚度下IQF、CNR和AGD进行Pearson相关分析,对CNR和管电流量进行曲线拟合。结果在钼-铑靶滤过组合下,不同压迫厚度时,随着管电流量增加,AGD线性增加,FOM先增加后下降或平缓变化。AGD和CNR在2~7 cm厚度下均呈高度正相关,r值均>0.97,P均<0.01。AGD和IQF在2~6 cm时呈高度正相关,r值均>0.87,P均<0.01。参考IQF和FOM因子,不同压迫厚度下,管电压和管电流量适宜匹配参数分别为2 cm、27 kVp、20~30 mAs,3 cm、29 kVp、30~50 mAs,4 cm、29 kVp、80~100 mAs,5 cm、30 kVp、80~120 mAs,6 cm、31 kVp、100~140 mAs,7 cm、32 kVp、80~120 mAs。压迫厚度-自动曝光档的设置对应关系为2 cm-1档、3 cm-2档、4 cm-3档、5 cm-2档、6 cm-0档、7 cm--1档。结论不同乳腺压迫厚度下,具有适宜的管电流量范围,临床实践中应选择相应的自动曝光条件。     

Optimising image quality and radiation dose for neonatal incubator imaging

IntroductionNeonates often require imaging within incubators however limited evidence exists as to the optimal method and acquisition parameters to achieve these examinations. This study aims to standardise and optimise neonatal chest radiography within incubators.MethodsA neonatal anthropomorphic phantom was imaged on two different incubators under controlled conditions using a DR system. Exposure factors, SID and placement of image receptor (direct v tray) were explored whilst keeping all other parameters consistent. Image quality was evaluated using absolute visual grading analysis (VGA) with contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) also calculated for comparison. Effective dose was established using Monte Carlo simulation using entrance surface dose within its calculations.ResultsVGA and CNR reduced significantly (p < 0.05) whilst effective dose increased significantly (p < 0.05) for images acquired using the incubator tray. The optimal combinations of parameters for incubator imaging were: image receptor directly behind neonate, 0.5 mAs, 60 kV at 100 cm SID, however, if tray needs to be used then these need to be adapted to: 1 mAs at maximum achievable SID. Effective dose was highest for images acquired using both incubator tray and 100 cm SID owing to a decrease in focus to skin distance. There is significant increase (p < 0.01) in VGA between using 0.5 mAs and 1 mAs but an apparent lack of increase between 1 and 1.5 mAs.ConclusionUsing the incubator tray has an adverse effect on both image quality and radiation dose for incubator imaging. Direct exposure is optimal for this type of examination but if tray needs to be used, both mAs and SID need to be increased slightly to compensate.Implications for practiceThis study can help inform practice in order to both standardise and optimise chest imaging for neonates in incubators.