Comparison of radiation dose,contrast enhancement and image quality of prospective ECG-Gated CT coronary angiography: Single versus dual source CT

IntroductionThe updated National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines of 2017 state that new generation cardiac CT scanners (Aquilion ONE, Brilliance iCT, Discovery CT750 HD and Somatom Definition Flash) are recommended as an option for first-line imaging of the coronary arteries in people with suspected stable coronary artery disease (with an estimated likelihood of coronary artery disease of 10–29%) in whom imaging with earlier generation CT scanners is difficult. New generation cardiac CT scanners are also recommended as an option for first-line evaluation of disease progression, to establish need for revascularisation in people with known coronary artery disease in whom imaging with earlier generation CT scanners is difficult. CT scanning might not be necessary in situations in which immediate revascularisation is being considered. The European Society of Cardiology 2019 clinical practice guidelines recommend non-invasive functional imaging for myocardial ischaemia or coronary CT angiography (CTA) as the initial test to diagnose CAD in symptomatic patients in whom obstructive CAD cannot be excluded by clinical assessment alone. Given increased computed tomography coronary angiogram (CTCA) utilisation, radiation dose, contrast enhancement and image quality of prospective ECG-gated CTCA between 256-slice single-source and 192x2-slice dual-source CT scanners were retrospectively evaluated.MethodsProspectively gated CTCA data from 63 patients on a 256-slice CT (group A) and 71 patients on a 192x2-slice dual source CT (group B) from January to December 2016 were retrospectively evaluated respectively. Scanner-reported dose length product values were used with a conversion factor (k = 0.014 mSv/mGy x cm) to estimate effective dose. Contrast enhancement was assessed with mean CT attenuation at selected regions of interest on axial coronary images. Image quality of the coronary arteries was assessed by a 4-point grading score (1 = non-diagnostic, 4 = excellent image quality).ResultsThe radiation doses in group B were significantly lower than group A (3.68 + 2.13 mSv versus 4.81 + 1.56 mSv, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in contrast enhancement in the left coronary artery, proximal right coronary artery and left ventricular wall for both groups. Vessel image quality scores for group B were higher than group A (right coronary artery (RCA): 3.2 + 0.7 versus 2.4 + 0.7, p < 0.001; left anterior descending (LAD) artery: 3.0 + 0.8 vs 2.5 + 0.6, p < 0.001; left circumflex (LCx) artery: 3.3 + 0.7 vs 2.6 + 0.6, p < 0.001). Coronary artery contour scores for group B were significantly higher than group A (RCA: 3.2 + 0.8 versus 2.3 + 0.7, p < 0.001; LAD: 3.0 + 0.7 versus 2.4 + 0.6, p < 0.001; LCx: 3.3 + 0.6 versus 2.5 + 0.6, p < 0.001).ConclusionProspective ECG-gated CTCA performed on 192x2-slice CT results in better image quality and lower radiation dose than 256-slice CT. There were no significant differences in contrast enhancement in left main coronary artery (LMCA), proximal RCA and left ventricular wall in both groups.Implications for practiceIn institutions with both 256-slice and 192x2-slice CT scanners, we recommend that CTCAs be preferentially performed using the 192x2-slice CT scanner.     

Coronary CT angiography with dual source computed tomography in 170 patients

Introduction

In preliminary studies DSCT provides robust image quality over a wide range of heart rates and excludes CAD with high accuracy.The aim of the present study was to evaluate the reproducibility of these results in a large, unselected and consecutive group of patients scheduled for invasive coronary angiography (ICA).

Material and methods

170 patients (124 men, 46 women; mean age: 64 ± 9 years) with known CAD (101 patients) or suspected CAD (69 patients) scheduled for ICA were examined by coronary CTA prior to ICA. All coronary segments were assessed for image quality (1: excellent; 5: non-diagnostic). The presence of significant vessel stenosis (>50%) was calculated using ICA as standard of reference.

Results

A total of 680 vessels were analyzed. Despite of 45 arrythmic patients all analyzed coronary segments were diagnostically evaluable. Mean Agatston score equivalent was 686 (range 0-4950). ICA revealed 364 lesions with ≥50% diameter stenosis. DSCT correctly identified 336 of these lesions. 115 lesions with a diameter stenosis ≤50% were overestimated by DSCT and thus considered as false-positive findings. On a per-segment basis, sensitivity was 92%, specificity 93%, positive predictive value (PPV) was 75% and negative predictive value (NPV) 98%. On a per-vessel basis DSCT revealed a sensitivity of 93%, a specificity of 88%, a PPV of 78% and a NPV of 97%. On a per-patient basis sensitivity was 94%, specificity 79%, PPV 88% and NPV 90%.

Conclusions

Initial results of preliminary studies showing robust image quality and high accuracy in DSCT cardiac imaging could be approved with the present study enclosing a large consecutive population. However severe coronary calcifications and irregular heart rate still remain limiting factors for coronary CTA.Despite improved image quality and high accuracy of coronary DSCT angiography, proof of indication is necessary, due to still remaining limiting factors.     

双源双能量CT肺动脉成像辐射剂量与图像质量的比较研究

_目的：比较第一代双源双能量 CT（DECT）与第二代双源双能量 CT 肺动脉成像（CTPA）的辐射剂量和图像质量。方法：120例疑似肺栓塞患者行 DE-CTPA 检查,其中40例患者行第二代双源 DECT 80/Sn140 kV 检查（第一组）,40例患者行第二代双源 DECT 100/Sn140 kV 检查（第二组）,40例患者行第一代双源 DECT 140/80 kV 检查（第三组）。测量每例患者肺动脉主干、肺动脉段、空气及背部脂肪的 CT 值及标准差,对肺动脉图像进行主观评分,计算图像信噪比（SNR）、对比噪声比（CNR）及每例患者的有效剂量（ED）。结果：第一组肺动脉平均 CT 值[（354．1±73．4）HU]明显高于第二组[（290．1±73．1）HU,P＜0．001]和第三组[（303．9±73．3）HU,P＜0．001],但第二组与第三组差异无统计学意义（P＝0．399）;第三组平均 SNR（24．8±8．4）低于第一组（40．4±12．9,P＜0．001）和第二组（44．6±12．9,P＜0．001）,但第一组与第二组差异无统计学意义（P＝0．115）。第一组平均 CNR（435．3±77．7）明显高于第二组（355．8±77．8,P＜0．001）和第三组（384．8±79．0,P＝0．005）,但第二组与第三组差异无统计学意义（P＝0．100）。三组图像主观质量评分差异无统计学意义（P＞0．05）。第一组的 ED[（1．2±0．3）mSv]明显低于第二组[（2．4±0．7）mSv]和第三组[（3．0±0．7）mSv],差异均有统计学意义（P＜0．05）。结论：第二代双源 DECT 80/Sn140 kV 扫描方案可在大幅度降低辐射剂量的同时获得满足诊断需求的图像。     

Dose performance and image quality: Dual source CT versus single source CT in cardiac CT angiography

ObjectiveTo evaluate dose performance and image quality of 64-slice dual source CT (DSCT) in comparison to 64-slice single source CT (SSCT) in cardiac CT angiography (CTA).Methods100 patients examined by DSCT and 60 patients scanned by SSCT were included in this study. Objective indices such as image noise, contrast-to-noise ratio and signal-to-noise ratio were analyzed. Subjective image quality was assessed by two cardiovascular radiologists in consensus using a four-point scale (1 = excellent to 4 = not acceptable). Estimation of effective dose was performed on the basis of dose length product (DLP).ResultsAt low heart rates (<70 bpm), image quality of SSCT was equivalent to that of DSCT (P > 0.05), but, at high heart rates (>70 bpm), DSCT provided robust image quality (P < 0.05). The average effective dose of SSCT was 9.3 ± 0.9 mSv at low heart rates (<70 bpm) while, the average estimated effective doses of DSCT were 9.1 ± 1.3 mSv, 8.3 ± 1.1 mSv, 7.9 ± 1.1 mSv, 6.9 ± 0.7 mSv, and 5.9 ± 1.3 mSv, corresponding to heart rates of 50–59 bpm, 60–69 bpm, 70–79 bpm, 80–89 bpm, and 90–100 bpm.ConclusionFor cardiac CTA, both DSCT and SSCT can get good image quality at low heart rates (<70 bpm) with a similar radiation dose, but, at high heart rates (>70 bpm), DSCT is able to provide robust diagnostic image quality at doses far below that of SSCT.     

Routine chest and abdominal high-pitch CT: an alternative low dose protocol with preserved image quality

Objective

To investigate the radiation dose and image quality of the high-pitch dual source computer tomography (DSCT) for routine chest and abdominal scans.

Methods

130 consecutive patients (62 female, 68 male, median age 55 years) were included. All patients underwent 128-slice high-pitch DSCT (chest n = 99; abdomen n = 84) at a pitch of 3.2. Two observers independently rated image quality using a 4-point score (1: excellent to 4: non-diagnostic). Image noise was measured and operational radiation dose quantities were recorded. An additional group of 132 patients (chest, n = 80; abdomen n = 52) scanned with standard-pitch CT matched for age, gender, and body mass index (BMI) served as control group.

Results

Interobserver agreement for image quality rating was good (k = 0.74). Subjective image quality of high-pitch CT was diagnostic in all patients (median score chest; 2, median score abdomen: 2). Image noise of high-pitch CT was comparable to standard-pitch for the chest (p = 0.32) but increased in the abdomen (p < 0.0001). For high-pitch CT radiation dose was 4.4 ± 0.9 mSv (chest) and 6.5 ± 1.2 mSv (abdomen). These values were significantly lower compared to standard-pitch CT (chest: 5.5 ± 1.2 mSv; abdomen: 11.3 ± 3.8 mSv).

Conclusion

Based on the technical background high-pitch dual source CT may serve as an alternative scan mode for low radiation dose routine chest and abdominal CT.     

Assessment of image quality of 64-row Dual Source versus Single Source CT coronary angiography on heart rate: A phantom study

Purpose

To assess the influence of temporal resolution on image quality of computed tomographic (CT) coronary angiography by comparing 64-row Dual Source CT (DSCT) and Single Source CT (SSCT) at different heart rates.

Methods

An anthropomorphic moving heart phantom was scanned at rest, and at 50 beats per minute (bpm) up to 110 bpm, with intervals of 10 bpm. 3D volume rendered images and curved multi-planar reconstructions (MPRs) were acquired and image quality of the coronary arteries was rated on a 5-points scale (1 = poor image quality with many artefacts, 5 = excellent image quality) for each heart rate and each scanner by 3 observers. Paired sample t-test and Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test were used to assess clinically relevant differences between both modalities.

Results

The mean image quality scores at 70, 100 and 110 bpm were significantly higher for DSCT compared to SSCT. The overall mean image quality scores for DSCT (4.2 ± 0.6) and SSCT (3.0 ± 1.1) also differed significantly (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

These initial results show a clinically relevant overall higher image quality for DSCT compared to SSCT, especially at heart rates of 70, 100 and 110 bpm. With its comparatively high image quality and low radiation dose, DSCT appears to be the method of choice in CT coronary angiography at heart rates above 70 bpm.     

Technical principles of dual source CT

During the past years, multi-detector row CT (MDCT) has evolved into clinical practice with a rapid increase of the number of detector slices. Today's 64 slice CT systems allow whole-body examinations with sub-millimeter resolution in short scan times. As an alternative to adding even more detector slices, we describe the system concept and design of a CT scanner with two X-ray tubes and two detectors (mounted on a CT gantry with a mechanical offset of 90 degrees) that has the potential to overcome limitations of conventional MDCT systems, such as temporal resolution for cardiac imaging. A dual source CT (DSCT) scanner provides temporal resolution equivalent to a quarter of the gantry rotation time, independent of the patient's heart rate (83 ms at 0.33 s rotation time). In addition to the benefits for cardiac scanning, it allows to go beyond conventional CT imaging by obtaining dual energy information if the two tubes are operated at different voltages. Furthermore, we discuss how both acquisition systems can be used to add the power reserve of two X-ray tubes for long scan ranges and obese patients. Finally, future advances of DSCT are highlighted.     

Image quality and radiation dose of low dose coronary CT angiography in obese patients: Sinogram affirmed iterative reconstruction versus filtered back projection

Purpose

To investigate the image quality and radiation dose of low radiation dose CT coronary angiography (CTCA) using sinogram affirmed iterative reconstruction (SAFIRE) compared with standard dose CTCA using filtered back-projection (FBP) in obese patients.

Materials and methods

Seventy-eight consecutive obese patients were randomized into two groups and scanned using a prospectively ECG-triggered step-and-shot (SAS) CTCA protocol on a dual-source CT scanner. Thirty-nine patients (protocol A) were examined using a routine radiation dose protocol at 120 kV and images were reconstructed with FBP (protocol A). Thirty-nine patients (protocol B) were examined using a low dose protocol at 100 kV and images were reconstructed with SAFIRE. Two blinded observers independently assessed the image quality of each coronary segment using a 4-point scale (1 = non-diagnostic, 4 = excellent) and measured the objective parameters image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). Radiation dose was calculated.

Results

The coronary artery image quality scores, image noise, SNR and CNR were not significantly different between protocols A and B (all p > 0.05), with image quality scores of 3.51 ± 0.70 versus 3.55 ± 0.47, respectively. The effective radiation dose was significantly lower in protocol B (4.41 ± 0.83 mSv) than that in protocol A (8.83 ± 1.74 mSv, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Compared with standard dose CTCA using FBP, low dose CTCA using SAFIRE can maintain diagnostic image quality with 50% reduction of radiation dose.     

Iterative model reconstruction: Improved image quality of low-tube-voltage prospective ECG-gated coronary CT angiography images at 256-slice CT

Objectives

To investigate the effects of a new model-based type of iterative reconstruction (M-IR) technique, the iterative model reconstruction, on image quality of prospectively gated coronary CT angiography (CTA) acquired at low-tube-voltage.

Methods

Thirty patients (16 men, 14 women; mean age 52.2 ± 13.2 years) underwent coronary CTA at 100-kVp on a 256-slice CT. Paired image sets were created using 3 types of reconstruction, i.e. filtered back projection (FBP), a hybrid type of iterative reconstruction (H-IR), and M-IR. Quantitative parameters including CT-attenuation, image noise, and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were measured. The visual image quality, i.e. graininess, beam-hardening, vessel sharpness, and overall image quality, was scored on a 5-point scale. Lastly, coronary artery segments were evaluated using a 4-point scale to investigate the assessability of each segment.

Results

There was no significant difference in coronary arterial CT attenuation among the 3 reconstruction methods. The mean image noise of FBP, H-IR, and M-IR images was 29.3 ± 9.6, 19.3 ± 6.9, and 12.9 ± 3.3 HU, respectively, there were significant differences for all comparison combinations among the 3 methods (p < 0.01). The CNR of M-IR was significantly better than of FBP and H-IR images (13.5 ± 5.0 [FBP], 20.9 ± 8.9 [H-IR] and 39.3 ± 13.9 [M-IR]; p < 0.01). The visual scores were significantly higher for M-IR than the other images (p < 0.01), and 95.3% of the coronary segments imaged with M-IR were of assessable quality compared with 76.7% of FBP- and 86.9% of H-IR images.

Conclusions

M-IR can provide significantly improved qualitative and quantitative image quality in prospectively gated coronary CTA using a low-tube-voltage.     

二代双源CT对冠状动脉支架的显示及辐射剂量的研究

目的 对比分析二代双源CT前瞻性心电触发高螺距螺旋扫描模式(Flash模式)和回顾性心电门控螺旋扫描模式(常规模式)下冠状动脉支架的显示质量和辐射剂量.方法 常规模式和Flash模式下共计120例患者的155个冠状动脉植入支架纳入本研究,平均年龄(64.9±10.6)岁,所有患者的心率均控制在≤65次/min,且心律规则.所有患者分成两组,分别接受Flash模式和常规模式的冠状动脉成像.冠状动脉原始图像均进行Kernel B26和Kernel B46的数据重建,并由两位医师对支架的显示质量进行独立的4级评分.两种模式下的冠状动脉显示质量利用卡方检验进行统计分析,而不同冠状动脉扫描模式下的容积CT剂量指数值(CTDIvol)和剂量长度乘积值(DLP),利用t检验进行辐射剂量的对比研究.结果 2位医师对所有冠状动脉支架显示质量的评分具有较好的一致性(Kappa=0.764,P＜0.001),Flash模式和常规模式的平均评分分别为:1.61±0.77和1.65±0.82.两种冠状动脉扫描模式的图像质量差异无统计学意义(x2=0.865,P=0.834).Flash模式的CTDIvol(3.24±1.21)明显低于常规模式(31.26±10.79),差异有统计学意义(t=19.83,P<0.001);Flash模式的DLP(54.61±19.88)同样低于常规模式(468.30±174.88),差异有统计学意义(t=18.06,P＜0.001).结论 控制患者心率≤65次/min且心律规则,Flash模式在降低辐射剂量的前提下可获得与常规模式相同质量的冠状动脉支架图像.

Abstract：

Objective To compare a prospective ECG-gated high-pitch spiral technique (Flash) and conventional retrospective ECG-gated spiral technique for the image quality of coronary artery stent and radiation dose with a dual source CT.Methods One hundred and fifty five coronary stents in one hundred and twenty patients (mean age 64.9 ± 10.6 years,heart rates≤65 bpm) were examined using a dual source CT.All patients were divided in two groups,receiving either Flash or conventional coronary artery CT angiography separately.After images of coronary artery were reconstructed using both the smooth (B26) and sharp (B46) kernel,the coronary stent image quality and stent lumen were scored by two observers individually using four point scale (1 = excellent,4 = unvaluable) .The effective radiation dose of volume CT dose index (CTDIvol,mGy) and dose length product (DLP,mGy x cm) were also calculated for each patient.x2-test analysis of image quality and t-test analysis of radiation dose were used respectively for statistical difference between two groups.Results Interobserver agreement for stent image quality was good (Kappa =0.764,P＜0.001).The mean scores were 1.61 ±0.77 and 1.65 ±0.82 in Flash group and conventional group respectively.There was no significant difference in image quality between the two groups (x2 = 0.865,P = 0.834).The effective radiation dose in Flash group was significantly lower than that in conventional group.The mean values of CTDIvol were 3.24 ± 1.21 in Flash group and 31.26 ± 10.79 in conventional group (t = 19.83,P < 0.001) ,and the mean values of DLP in Flash group and conventional group were 54.61 ±19.88 and 468.30 ± 174.88,respectively (t = 18.06,P < 0.001).Conclusions Compared with the conventiaonal coronary artery CT angiography,the Flash coronary artery CT angiography technique has a similar coronary stent image quality,but at a lower radiation dose in patients with heart rates lower than 65 beats per minute.     

心电编辑对提高双源CT冠脉图像质量的初步研究

目的:探讨心电编辑在改善双源CT冠脉图像质量中的作用。方法:以冠脉分支为单位,回顾性分析60例心率变异过大或心律失常患者双源CT冠脉成像编辑前后的图像质量,总结不同类型的心电编辑方法。结果:60例心率变异过大或心律失常患者,心率范围为55～269次/min,平均心率(92.8±31.9)次/min,冠脉图像编辑前后的图像质量总评分分别为2.26±1.03、3.5±0.61(t=-17.85,P=0.001);表明编辑前后图像质量的评分有统计学意义,编辑后图像质量明显改善。结论:心电编辑技术可以明显改善心率变异过大或心律失常患者双源CT冠脉成像的图像质量。     

Coronary CT angiography in step-and-shoot technique with 256-slice CT: impact of the field of view on image quality, craniocaudal coverage, and radiation exposure

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of a small field of view (FOV) for step-and-shoot coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) on craniocaudal z-coverage per scan step, image quality, and radiation exposure.

Methods

53 patients underwent prospectively ECG-gated CCTA on a 256-slice MDCT scanner using either a FOV > 250 mm (group 1, n = 29) or a FOV ≤ 250 mm (group 2, n = 24). Craniocaudal z-coverage was determined on coronal multiplanar reformations. Image noise, signal-to-noise ratio, contrast-to-noise ratio, and qualitative image parameters were assessed. Radiation dose was estimated from the dose length product and was standardized for a scan range from the main pulmonary artery to the diaphragm in order to make both groups comparable.

Results

Diagnostic image quality was achieved in 91.3% of the coronary artery segments of group 1 and 89.9% in group 2 (p = 0.201). There were no major differences in image noise, SNR, and CNR between both groups. A smaller FOV leads to an increase of craniocaudal coverage of a single CT scan step (r = − 0.879; p ≤ 0.001). There was an increase of 23.8% of the mean z-coverage per scanned subvolume in group 2 (59.9 mm vs. 48.8 mm). Radiation dose was significantly lower in group 2 (229 vs. 285 mGy cm, respectively).

Conclusion

The use of a small transverse FOV for step-and-shoot CCTA at a wide detector CT scanner leads to an increased z-coverage. 2 scan volumes are enough to image the cardiac anatomy. Radiation dose is decreased without negative impact on image quality.     

Dose reduction in spiral CT angiography of thoracic outlet syndrome by anatomically adapted tube current modulation

The aim of this study was to evaluate dose reduction in spiral CT angiography of the thoracic outlet by on-line tube-current control. Prospectively, 114 patients undergoing spiral CT angiography of the subclavian artery for thoracic outlet arterial syndromes were evaluated with and without tube-current modulation at the same session (scanning parameters for the two successive angiograms, one in the neutral position and one after the postural maneuver): 140 kV; 206 mA; scan time 0.75 s; collimation 3 mm; pitch = 1). The dose reduction system was applied in the neutral position in the first 92 consecutive patients and after postural maneuver in the remaining 22 consecutive patients. Dose reduction and image quality were analyzed in the overall study group (group 1; n = 114). The influence of the arm position was assessed in 44 of the 114 patients (group 2), matched by the transverse diameter of the upper thorax. The mean dose reduction was 33 % in group 1 (range 22–40 %) and 34 % in group 2 (range 26–40 %). In group 2 the only difference in image quality was a significantly higher frequency of graininess on low-dose scans compared with reference scans whatever the patient's arm position, graded as minimal in 38 of the 44 patients (86 %). When the low-dose technique was applied after postural maneuver in group 2: (a) the mean dose reduction was significantly higher (35 vs 32 % in the neutral position; p = 0.006); (b) graininess was less frequent (82 vs 91 % in the neutral position); and (c) the percentage of graininess graded as minimal was significantly higher (83 vs 70 % in the neutral position; p = 0.2027). On-line tube-current modulation enables dose reduction on high-quality, diagnostic spiral CT angiograms of the thoracic outlet and should be applied during data acquisition in the neutral position and after postural maneuver for optimal use. Received: 31 July 2000 Revised: 6 October 2000 Accepted: 6 October 2000     

Radiation dose in 320-slice multidetector cardiac CT: A single center experience of evolving dose minimization

BackgroundMinimization of radiation exposure remains an important subject that occurs in parallel with advances in scanner technology.ObjectiveWe report our experience of evolving radiation dose and its determinants after the introduction of 320-multidetector row cardiac CT within a single tertiary cardiology referral service.MethodsFour cohorts of consecutive patients (total 525 scans), who underwent cardiac CT at defined time points as early as 2008, are described. These include a cohort just after scanner installation, after 2 upgrades of the operating system, and after introduction of an adaptive iterative image reconstruction algorithm. The proportions of nondiagnostic coronary artery segments and studies with nondiagnostic segments were compared between cohorts.ResultsSignificant reductions were observed in median radiation doses in all cohorts compared with the initial cohort (P < .001). Median dose-length product fell from 944 mGy · cm (interquartile range [IQR], 567.3–1426.5 mGy · cm) to 156 mGy · cm (IQR, 99.2–265.0 mGy · cm). Although the proportion of prospectively triggered scans has increased, reductions in radiation dose have occurred independently of distribution of scan formats. In multiple regression that combined all groups, determinants of dose-length product were tube output, the number of cardiac cycles scanned, tube voltage, scan length, scan format, body mass index, phase width, and heart rate (adjusted R² = 0.85, P < .001). The proportion of nondiagnostic coronary artery segments was slightly increased in group 4 (2.9%; P < .01).ConclusionWhile maintaining diagnostic quality in 320-multidetector row cardiac CT, the radiation dose has decreased substantially because of a combination of dose-reduction protocols and technical improvements. Continued minimization of radiation dose will increase the potential for cardiac CT to expand as a cardiac imaging modality.     

双源CT双能量自动减影去骨技术在颈动脉造影中的临床应用

目的 评价双源CT双能量自动减影去骨去钙化技术在颈动脉造影中的临床应用价值.方法 回顾性分析自2012年11月～2014年2月在本院就诊应用双源CT双能量颈动脉血管成像检查的患者126例,分析全部患者颈动脉双源CT双能量自动去骨去钙化技术对颈动脉的显示,并评价图像质量.其中阳性结果患者中有27例患者接受了头颈部血管造影(DSA)检查,并以DSA图像为金标准对照,评价双源CT双能量自动减影去骨去钙化技术诊断颈动脉狭窄与DSA对照的统计学意义.结果 126例患者颈动脉双能量自动去骨后,对颈总动脉(CCA)血管满意显示率为71.0％,颈内动脉颅外段(ICA-E)血管显示满意率为96.0％,颈内动脉颅内段(ICA-I)血管满意显示率为74.2％,ICA-E血管满意显示率最高,与CCA及ICA-I相比有统计学意义(P＜0.05),全部血管总满意显示率为80.4％.27例阳性患者颈动脉双能量自动去骨后与DSA对照,狭窄吻合率一致性很高(P＞0.05),尤其重度及闭塞吻合率达到95％以上.结论 双源CT双能量自动去骨去钙化技术在颈动脉成像中的应用是一种快速、有效、无创的检查新手段,获得的图像质量好,尤其在ICA-E段血管的显示几乎可以替代DSA检查.     

双源CT诊断冠脉狭窄的价值—与冠状动脉造影对照分析

目的:探讨双源CT冠脉成像评价冠脉中度及中度以上狭窄的准确性及可行性。方法:入选60例临床高度怀疑或已确诊冠脉疾病的患者,行双源CT扫描,扫描过程中患者心率平稳,未出现心率不齐及心律失常。患者于1周内行经皮选择性冠状动脉造影,并以冠状动脉造影作为标准,从冠脉节段及冠脉分支角度分别评价双源CT诊断冠脉中度及中度以上狭窄的准确性、敏感性、特异性、阳性预测率及阴性预测率。结果:以冠脉节段为基础分析,双源CT诊断冠脉明显狭窄的敏感性、特异性、阳性预测率、阴性预测率、准确性分别为81.14%、97.57%、85.34%、96.74%、95.13%;以冠脉分支为基础分析,双源CT诊断冠脉明显狭窄的敏感性、特异性、阳性预测率、阴性预测率、准确性分别为84.21%、93.79%、89.88%、90.06%、90.0%。双源CT与选择性冠脉造影对发现冠脉狭窄节段及检查冠脉分支病变的能力进行卡方检验,χ2分别0.625、1.041;P0.05,双源CT与选择性冠脉造影比较在发现冠脉明显狭窄差异上无统计学意义。结论:双源CT在诊断冠脉明显狭窄时有很高的准确性,可作为无创性评价冠脉狭窄及疾病的手段。     

双源CT肺动脉成像不同扫描模式图像质量及辐射剂量的对比研究

目的 探讨双源CT肺动脉成像双能量扫描与普通扫描(单能量扫描)对图像质量及辐射剂量的影响.方法 临床怀疑肺栓塞并行炫速双源CT肺动脉成像单、双能量扫描患者各61例,按扫描方式不同分为A、B2组,A组为双能量扫描(80/Sn140 kV),B组为普通扫描(Care kV选择输出管电压).对2组图像进行图像质量评分及测量2组肺动脉CT值、空气标准差(背景噪声)并计算信噪比(SNR),同时对2组图像的辐射剂量进行对比分析,以P＜0.05为具有统计学意义.结果 2组图像质量主观评分2名观察者间一致性较好,Kappa分别为0.705、0.827,2组图像质量评分差异无统计学意义(P＞0.05);A组右下肺动脉CT值高于B组,差异有统计学意义(P＜0.05),其余肺动脉的CT值差异均无统计学意义(P＞0.05);A组图像噪声稍高于B组,SNR稍低于B组,差异无统计学意义(P＞0.05);A、B2组CT剂量指数(CTDIvol)、剂量长度乘积(DLP)有效剂量(ED)分别为(6.13± 1.09)mGy和(12.41±3.42) mGy、(172.49士41.35)mGy· cm和(332.16±115.65) mGy.cm、(2.41±0.58) mSv和(4.65±1.62) mSv,差异具有统计学意义(P=0.000),A组CTDIvol、DLP、ED较B组分别减少50.60％、48.07％、48.17％.结论 双源CT肺动脉成像双能量扫描(80/Sn140 kV)的图像质量与单能量扫描相近,X线辐射剂量较单能量扫描明显降低.     

肺动脉CT成像中不同扫描模式对影像质量及辐射剂量影响的对比研究

目的 探讨能谱CT扫描模式和不同噪声指数扫描模式在CT肺动脉成像(CTPA)中影像质量和辐射剂量的比较研究.方法 将体质量指数(BMI)为20～25 kg/m2的200例患者随机分成4组进行CTPA扫描,扫描范围为270～320 mm.第1组扫描模式为能谱CT扫描模式;第2～4组使用普通扫描模式,但噪声指数不同,分别为26、36、46,扫描参数为120 kV,自动管电流调制技术(Auto mA)和智能管电流调制技术(Smart mA);记录4组扫描模式的CTDIvol及DLP并取平均值,将DLP转换为有效剂量.计算上述扫描条件影像的信噪比(SNR)及对比度噪声比(CNR)并取平均值,请3位影像学专家对影像进行双盲法评分,用Kappa检验比较观察者评分的一致性;采用双因素方差分析比较4组患者的SNR、CNR、评分值及有效剂量.结果 不同扫描模式下4组扫描模式产生影像的SNR平均值分别为25.55 ±3.13、23.32±2.63、22.38±1.83、20.11 ±2.88;CNR平均值分别为27.71 ±3.78、25.91 ±2.38、24.87±3.38、24.28±2.36;3位影像学家对上述影像主观评价平均值分别为4.52±0.52、4.55±0.22、4.51 ±0.16、4.21 ±0.32;不同扫描模式的CTDIvol平均值分别为(17.77±2.26) mGy、(7.11±1.78) mGy、(6.07±1.16) mGy、(5.56±1.22) mGy;DLP平均值分别为(489.89±25.68) mGy、(235.69±20.68) mGy、(178.23±19.56)mGy、(160.08±19.67)mGy,并将DLP转换为有效剂量值分别为(7.33±0.36) mSv、(3.52±0.22) mSv、(2.67±0.31) mSv、(2.41 ±0.18)mSv.4组间影像的SNR和CNR值差异无统计学意义(F=4.52,P＞0.05),3名影像学专家的评分一致性较高(Kappa=0.859,P＜0.01);第4组的有效剂量较第1组低67.12％,二者间差异有统计学意义(F =29.56,P＜0.01);第4组的有效剂量较第2组低31.53％,二者间差异有统计学意义(F =23.32,P＜0.01).结论 CTPA能谱CT扫描模式和不同噪声指数(26、36、46)的普通扫描模式影像质量没有明显区别,普通扫描模式较能谱CT扫描模式的辐射剂量低;不同噪声指数扫描模式的影像质量没有明显区别,但其辐射剂量却有明显差别.     

Comparison of the image quality and radiation dose of different scanning modes in head-neck CT angiography

Objectives:To analyze and compare the radiation dose and image quality of different CT scanning modes on head-neck CT angiography.Methods:A total of 180 patients were divided into Group A and Group B. The groups were further subdivided according to different scanning modes: subgroups A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, and B3. Subgroups A1 and B1 used conventional CT protocol, subgroups A2 and B2 used the kV-Assist scan mode, and subgroups A3 and B3 used the dual-energy gemstone spectral imaging protocol. The CT dose index and dose–length product were recorded. The objective image quality and subjective image evaluation was conducted by two independent radiologists.Results:The signal-to-noise ratios, contrast-to-noise ratios, and subjective scores of subgroups A3 and B3 were higher than the other subgroups. In subgroups B1 and B2, the subjective scores of 9 patients and 12 patients were lower than 3, respectively. The subjective scores of subgroups B1 and B2 were lower than the other subgroups. There was no statistically significant difference in signal-to-noise ratios, contrast-to-noise ratios, and subjective scores between subgroups A1 and A2. The effective dose of subgroup A2 was 41.7 and 36.4% lower than that in subgroups A1 and A3, respectively (p < 0.05). In Group B, there were no statistically significant differences in CT dose indexvol, dose–length product, and ED among the subgroups (p > 0.05).Conclusion:In the head-neck CT angiography, the kV-Assist scan mode is recommended for patients with body mass index between 18.5 and 34.9 kg m⁻²; gemstone spectral imaging scanning mode is recommended for patients with body mass index ≥34.9 kg m⁻².     

双源CT自适应前瞻性心电门控冠状动脉成像技术的初步应用

目的：初步探讨双源CT前瞻性心电门控冠状动脉成像的图像质量和辐射剂量。方法：对50例临床怀疑冠心病的受检者进行双源CT自适应前瞻性门控冠状动脉成像,检查前均未服用琥珀酸美托洛尔。图像质量分4级,依照美国心脏病协会（AHA）冠状动脉分段标准分别评价各个冠状动脉节段的图像质量,分别计算每例的有效辐射剂量（ED）。结果：50例受检者平均体重指数（BM I）为（25.00±2.58）kg/m2,扫描时平均心率（71.13±9.63）次/min,平均有效辐射剂量（3.31±1.08）mSv,显示了94.76%能满足诊断要求的冠状动脉节段,图像质量优秀占79.49%。结论：双源CT自适应前瞻性心电门控冠状动脉成像对于无严重心律失常的受检者都可得到满足诊断要求的图像,辐射剂量低,具有广阔的应用前景。