Effectiveness of Automated Quantification of Pulmonary Perfused Blood Volume Using Dual-Energy CTPA for the Severity Assessment of Acute Pulmonary Embolism:

Diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism: when photon-counting-detector CT replaces energy-integrating-detector CT in daily routine

PURPOSE

To compare the diagnostic approach of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) with photon-counting-detector CT (PCD-CT) and energy-integrating-detector CT (EID-CT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two cohorts underwent CT angiographic examinations with EID-CT (Group 1; n = 158) and PCD-CT (Group 2; n = 172), (b) with two options in Group 1, dual energy (Group 1a) or single energy (Group 1b) and a single option in Group 2 (spectral imaging with single source).

RESULTS

In Group 2, all patients benefited from spectral imaging, only accessible to 105 patients (66.5%) in Group 1, with a mean acquisition time significantly shorter (0.9 ± 0.1 s vs 4.0 ± 0 .3 s; p < 0.001) and mean values of CTDIvol and DLP reduced by 46.3% and 47.7%, respectively. Comparing the quality of 70 keV (Group 2) and averaged (Group 1a) images: (a) the mean attenuation within pulmonary arteries did not differ (p = 0.13); (b) the image noise was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in Group 2 with no difference in subjective image noise (p = 0.29); and (c) 89% of examinations were devoid of artifacts in Group 2 vs 28.6% in Group 1a. The percentage of diagnostic examinations was 95.2% (100/105; Group 1a), 100% (53/53; Group 1b), and 95.3% (164/172; Group 2). There were 4.8% (5/105; Group 1a) and 4.7% (8/172; Group 2) of non-diagnostic examinations, mainly due to the suboptimal quality of vascular opacification with the restoration of a diagnostic image quality on low-energy images.

CONCLUSION

Compared to EID-CT, morphology and perfusion imaging were available in all patients scanned with PCD-CT, with the radiation dose reduced by 48%.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

PCD-CT enables scanning patients with the advantages of both spectral imaging, including high-quality morphologic imaging and lung perfusion for all patients, and fast scanning-a combination that is not simultaneously accessible with EID-CT while reducing the radiation dose by almost 50%.

Thoracic Applications of Spectral CT Scan

TOPIC IMPORTANCE

Thoracic imaging with CT scan has become an essential component in the evaluation of respiratory and thoracic diseases. Providers have historically used conventional single-energy CT; however, prevalence of dual-energy CT (DECT) is increasing, and as such, it is important for thoracic physicians to recognize the utility and limitations of this technology.

REVIEW FINDINGS

The technical aspects of DECT are presented, and practical approaches to using DECT are provided. Imaging at multiple energy spectra allows for postprocessing of the data and the possibility of creating multiple distinct image reconstructions based on the clinical question being asked. The data regarding utility of DECT in pulmonary vascular disorders, ventilatory defects, and thoracic oncology are presented. A pictorial essay is provided to give examples of the strengths associated with DECT.

SUMMARY

DECT has been most heavily studied in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension; however, it is increasingly being used across a wide spectrum of thoracic diseases. DECT combines morphologic and functional assessments in a single imaging acquisition, providing clinicians with a powerful diagnostic tool. Its role in the evaluation and treatment of thoracic diseases will likely continue to expand in the coming years as clinicians become more experienced with the technology.

Lung Dysfunction and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Complex Network of Multiple Interactions

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive disease that affects > 10% of the total population worldwide or >800 million people. CKD poses a particularly heavy burden in low- and middle-income countries, which are least able to cope with its consequences. It has become one of the leading causes of death worldwide and is one of the few non-communicable diseases where the number of related deaths has increased over the last two decades. The high number of people affected, and the significant negative impact of CKD should be a reason to increase efforts to improve prevention and treatment. The interaction of lung and kidney leads to highly complex and difficult clinical scenarios. CKD significantly affects the physiology of the lung by altering fluid homeostasis, acid-base balance and vascular tone. In the lung, haemodynamic disturbances lead to the development of alterations in ventilatory control, pulmonary congestion, capillary stress failure and pulmonary vascular disease. In the kidney, haemodynamic disturbances lead to sodium and water retention and the deterioration of renal function. In this article, we would like to draw attention to the importance of harmonising the definitions of clinical events in pneumology and renal medicine. We would also like to highlight the need for pulmonary function tests in routine clinical practise for the management of patients with CKD, in order to find new concepts for pathophysiological based disease-specific management strategies.

Quantitative analysis of pulmonary perfusion with dual-energy CT angiography: comparison of two quantification methods in patients with pulmonary embolism

The study aimed to evaluate a quantification method of pulmonary perfusion with Dual-Energy CT Angiography (DE-CTA) normalized by lung density in the prediction of outcome in acute pulmonary embolism (PE). In this prospective study with CTA scans acquired with different breathing protocols, two perfusion parameters were calculated: %PBV (relative value of PBV, expressed per unit volume) and PBVm (PBV normalized by lung density, expressed per unit mass). DE-CTA parameters were correlated with simplified pulmonary embolism severity index (sPESI) and with outcome groups, alone and in combinationwith tomographic right-to-left ventricular ratios (RV/LV). PBVm showed significant correlation with sPESI. PBVm presented higher accuracy than %PBV In the prediction of ICU admission or death in patients with PE, with the best performance when combined with RV/LV volumetric ratio.

Pulmonary Blood Volume Measured by Dual-Energy Computed Tomography Can Help Distinguish Patients With Pulmonary Hypertension

Purpose

To evaluate the correlation between whole lung enhancement (WLE) and pulmonary blood volume (PBV) obtained through dual energy computed tomography pulmonary angiography (DECTPA) and echocardiography-derived systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (SPAP).

Methods

Sixty-eight patients who underwent DECTPA were enrolled in the study after giving informed consent. A transthoracic echocardiography was performed for all the subjects within 48 h of their DECTPA study to measure SPAP. The correlation of the two DECTPA-derived parameters, WLE and PBV, with SPAP was assessed. In addition, the predictive strength of these parameters was compared with that of traditional computed tomography (CT) signs of pulmonary hypertension (PH).

Results

The SPAP value showed a moderate correlation with main pulmonary artery (MPA) diameter (r = 0.48, P < 0.001), while having a weak correlation with WLE (r = −0.33, P = 0.007), PBV (r = −0.31, P = 0.01) and MPA/ascending aorta (MPA/AA) ratio (r = 0.26, P = 0.03). On regression analysis, MPA diameter (B ± SE: 1.8 ± 0.6, P = 0.004) and WLE (B ± SE: −0.5 ± 0.3, P = 0.042) had significant association with SPAP. In addition, SPAP ≥30 mmHg was related to the right to left ventricular diameter (RV/LV) ratio [OR (CI 95%): 24.39 (1.3–573.2), P = 0.04] and reversely associated with PBV [OR (CI 95%): 0.96 (0.93–0.98), P = 0.005]. Acquired cutoff value of 83% for PBV showed sensitivity and specificity of 73% to identify SPAP ≥30 mmHg [AUC (CI 95%):0.727 (0.588–0.866), P = 0.008].

Conclusions

Automated postprocessing calculation of iodine distribution analysis by DECTPA could be considered as an adjunctive tool to investigate for PH.

Lobar pulmonary perfusion quantification with dual-energy CT angiography: Interlobar variability and relationship with regional clot burden in pulmonary embolism

Purpose

Semi-automated lobar segmentation tools enable an anatomical assessment of regional pulmonary perfusion with Dual-Energy CTA (DE-CTA). We aimed to quantify lobar pulmonary perfusion with DE-CTA, analyze the perfusion distribution among the pulmonary lobes in subjects without cardiopulmonary diseases and assess the correlation between lobar perfusion and regional endoluminal clots in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE).

Methods

We evaluated 151 consecutive subjects with suspected PE and without cardiopulmonary comorbidities. DE-CTA derived perfused blood volume (PBV) of each pulmonary lobe was measured applying a semi-automated lobar segmentation technique. In patients with PE, blood clot location was assessed, and CT-based vascular obstruction index of each lobe (CTOI_lobe) was calculated and classified into three groups: CTOI_lobe= 0, low CTOI_lobe (1–50%) and high CTOI_lobe (>50%).

Results

Among patients without PE (103/151, 68.2%), median lobar PBV was 13.7% (IQR 10.2–18.0%); the right middle lobe presented lower PBV when compared to all the other lobes (p < .001). In patients with PE (48/151, 31.8%), lobar PBV was 12.6% (IQR 9.6–15.7%), 13.7% (IQR 10.1–16.7%) and 6.5% (IQR 5.1–10.2%) in the lobes with CTOI_lobe= 0, low CTOI_lobe and high CTOI_lobe scores, respectively, with a significantly decreased PBV in the lobes with high CTOI_lobe score (p < .001). ROC analysis of lobar PBV for prediction of high CTOI_lobe score revealed AUC of 0.847 (95%CI 0.785–0.908).

Conclusion

Pulmonary perfusion was heterogeneously distributed along the pulmonary lobes in patients without cardiopulmonary diseases. In patients with PE, the lobes with high vascular obstruction score (CTOI_lobe> 50%) presented a decreased lobar perfusion.

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Semi-automated tools enable assessment of lobar perfusion with Dual-Energy CTA.

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The pulmonary perfusion is heterogeneously distributed along the pulmonary lobes.

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Lobar perfusion was decreased only in the lobes with high vascular obstruction index.

Acute Pulmonary Embolism: Prognostic Role of Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography (CTPA)

Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography (CTPA) is considered the gold standard diagnostic technique in patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism in emergency departments. Several studies have been conducted on the predictive value of CTPA on the outcomes of pulmonary embolism (PE). The purpose of this article is to provide an updated review of the literature reporting imaging parameters and quantitative CT scores to predict the severity of PE.

Dual-Energy CT for Pulmonary Embolism: Current and Evolving Clinical Applications

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a potentially fatal disease if the diagnosis or treatment is delayed. Currently, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is considered the standard imaging method for diagnosing PE. Dual-energy CT (DECT) has the advantages of MDCT and can provide functional information for patients with PE. The aim of this review is to present the potential clinical applications of DECT in PE, focusing on the diagnosis and risk stratification of PE.

Acute Pulmonary Embolism Severity Assessment Evaluated with Dual Energy CT Perfusion Compared to Conventional CT Angiographic Measurements

The purpose of the study was to investigate whether Dual Energy CT (DECT) can be used as a diagnostic tool to assess the severity of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) by correlating parenchymal perfusion defect volume, obstruction score and right ventricular-to-left ventricular (RV/LV) diameter ratio using CT angiography (CTA) and DECT perfusion imaging. A total of 43 patients who underwent CTA and DECT perfusion imaging with clinical suspicion of acute PE were retrospectively included in the study. In total, 25 of these patients had acute PE findings on CTA. DECT assessed perfusion defect volume (PDvol) were automatically and semiautomatically quantified. Overall, two CTA methods for risk assessment in patients with acute PE were assessed: the RV/LV diameter ratio and the Modified Miller obstruction score. Automatic PDvol had a weak correlation (r = 0.47, p = 0.02) and semiautomatic PDvol (r = 0.68, p < 0.001) had a moderate correlation to obstruction score in patients with confirmed acute PE, while only semiautomatic PDvol (r = 0.43, p = 0.03) had a weak correlation with the RV/LV diameter ratio. Our data indicate that PDvol assessed by DECT software technique may be a helpful tool to assess the severity of acute PE when compared to obstruction score and RV/LV diameter ratio.

Computed Tomography Pulmonary Perfusion for Prediction of Short-Term Clinical Outcome in Acute Pulmonary Embolism

Background  Computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is the imaging modality of choice for the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism (PE). With computed tomography pulmonary perfusion (CTPP) additional information on lung perfusion can be assessed, but its value in PE risk stratification is unknown. We aimed to evaluate the correlation between CTPP-assessed perfusion defect score (PDS) and clinical presentation and its predictive value for adverse short-term outcome of acute PE.

Patients and Methods  This was an exploratory, observational study in 100 hemodynamically stable patients with CTPA-confirmed acute PE in whom CTPP was performed as part of routine clinical practice. We calculated the difference between the mean PDS in patients with versus without chest pain, dyspnea, and hemoptysis and 7-day adverse outcome. Multivariable logistic regression analysis and likelihood-ratio test were used to assess the added predictive value of PDS to CTPA parameters of right ventricle dysfunction and total thrombus load, for intensive care unit admission, reperfusion therapy and PE-related death.

Results  We found no correlation between PDS and clinical symptoms. PDS was correlated to reperfusion therapy ( n  = 4 with 16% higher PDS, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.5–28%) and PE-related mortality ( n  = 2 with 22% higher PDS, 95% CI: 4.9–38). Moreover, PDS had an added predictive value to CTPA assessment for PE-related mortality (from Chi-square 14 to 19, p  = 0.02).

Conclusion  CTPP-assessed PDS was not correlated to clinical presentation of acute PE. However, PDS was correlated to reperfusion therapy and PE-related mortality and had an added predictive value to CTPA-reading for PE-related mortality; this added value needs to be demonstrated in larger studies.

Dual energy imaging in cardiothoracic pathologies: A primer for radiologists and clinicians

Recent advances in dual-energy imaging techniques, dual-energy subtraction radiography (DESR) and dual-energy CT (DECT), offer new and useful additional information to conventional imaging, thus improving assessment of cardiothoracic abnormalities. DESR facilitates detection and characterization of pulmonary nodules. Other advantages of DESR include better depiction of pleural, lung parenchymal, airway and chest wall abnormalities, detection of foreign bodies and indwelling devices, improved visualization of cardiac and coronary artery calcifications helping in risk stratification of coronary artery disease, and diagnosing conditions like constrictive pericarditis and valvular stenosis. Commercially available DECT approaches are classified into emission based (dual rotation/spin, dual source, rapid kilovoltage switching and split beam) and detector-based (dual layer) systems. DECT provide several specialized image reconstructions. Virtual non-contrast images (VNC) allow for radiation dose reduction by obviating need for true non contrast images, low energy virtual mono-energetic images (VMI) boost contrast enhancement and help in salvaging otherwise non-diagnostic vascular studies, high energy VMI reduce beam hardening artifacts from metallic hardware or dense contrast material, and iodine density images allow quantitative and qualitative assessment of enhancement/iodine distribution. The large amount of data generated by DECT can affect interpreting physician efficiency but also limit clinical adoption of the technology. Optimization of the existing workflow and streamlining the integration between post-processing software and picture archiving and communication system (PACS) is therefore warranted.

Quantitative assessment of pulmonary artery occlusion using lung dynamic perfusion CT

Quantitative measurement of lung perfusion is a promising tool to evaluate lung pathophysiology as well as to assess disease severity and monitor treatment. However, this novel technique has not been adopted clinically due to various technical and physiological challenges; and it is still in the early developmental phase where the correlation between lung pathophysiology and perfusion maps is being explored. The purpose of this research work is to quantify the impact of pulmonary artery occlusion on lung perfusion indices using lung dynamic perfusion CT (DPCT). We performed Lung DPCT in ten anesthetized, mechanically ventilated juvenile pigs (18.6–20.2 kg) with a range of reversible pulmonary artery occlusions (0%, 40–59%, 60–79%, 80–99%, and 100%) created with a balloon catheter. For each arterial occlusion, DPCT data was analyzed using first-pass kinetics to derive blood flow (BF), blood volume (BV) and mean transit time (MTT) perfusion maps. Two radiologists qualitatively assessed perfusion maps for the presence or absence of perfusion defects. Perfusion maps were also analyzed quantitatively using a linear segmented mixed model to determine the thresholds of arterial occlusion associated with perfusion derangement. Inter-observer agreement was assessed using Kappa statistics. Correlation between arterial occlusion and perfusion indices was evaluated using the Spearman-rank correlation coefficient. Our results determined that perfusion defects were detected qualitatively in BF, BV and MTT perfusion maps for occlusions larger than 55%, 80% and 55% respectively. Inter-observer agreement was very good with Kappa scores > 0.92. Quantitative analysis of the perfusion maps determined the arterial occlusion threshold for perfusion defects was 50%, 76% and 44% for BF, BV and MTT respectively. Spearman-rank correlation coefficients between arterial occlusion and normalized perfusion values were strong (− 0.92, − 0.72, and 0.78 for BF, BV and MTT, respectively) and were statically significant (p < 0.01). These findings demonstrate that lung DPCT enables quantification and stratification of pulmonary artery occlusion into three categories: mild, moderate and severe. Severe (occlusion ≥ 80%) alters all perfusion indices; mild (occlusion < 55%) has no detectable effect. Moderate (occlusion 55–80%) impacts BF and MTT but BV is preserved.

From Early Morphometrics to Machine Learning-What Future for Cardiovascular Imaging of the Pulmonary Circulation?

Imaging plays a cardinal role in the diagnosis and management of diseases of the pulmonary circulation. Behind the picture itself, every digital image contains a wealth of quantitative data, which are hardly analysed in current routine clinical practice and this is now being transformed by radiomics. Mathematical analyses of these data using novel techniques, such as vascular morphometry (including vascular tortuosity and vascular volumes), blood flow imaging (including quantitative lung perfusion and computational flow dynamics), and artificial intelligence, are opening a window on the complex pathophysiology and structure-function relationships of pulmonary vascular diseases. They have the potential to make dramatic alterations to how clinicians investigate the pulmonary circulation, with the consequences of more rapid diagnosis and a reduction in the need for invasive procedures in the future. Applied to multimodality imaging, they can provide new information to improve disease characterization and increase diagnostic accuracy. These new technologies may be used as sophisticated biomarkers for risk prediction modelling of prognosis and for optimising the long-term management of pulmonary circulatory diseases. These innovative techniques will require evaluation in clinical trials and may in themselves serve as successful surrogate end points in trials in the years to come.

Pulmonary Embolism Versus Mimics on Dual-energy Spectral Computed Tomography: An Algorithmic Approach

Pulmonary embolism is a commonly encountered diagnosis that is traditionally identified on conventional computed tomography angiography. Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) is a new technology that may aid the initial identification and differential diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. In this review, we present an algorithmic approach for assessing pulmonary embolism on DECT, including acute versus chronic pulmonary embolism, relationship to conventional computed tomography angiography, surrogate for likelihood of hemodynamic significance, and alternative diagnoses for DECT perfusion defects.

Dual-energy CT angiography in suspected pulmonary embolism: influence of injection protocols on image quality and perfused blood volume

To compare intravenous contrast material (CM) injection protocols for dual-energy CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) in patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism with regard to image quality and pulmonary perfused blood volume (PBV) values. A total of 198 studies performed with four CM injection protocols varying in CM volume and iodine delivery rates (IDR) were retrospectively included: (A) 60 ml at 5 ml/s (IDR = 1.75gI/s), (B) 50 ml at 5 ml/s (IDR = 1.75gI/s), (C) 50 ml at 4 ml/s (IDR = 1.40gI/s), (D) 40 ml at 3 ml/s (IDR = 1.05gI/s). Image quality and PBV values at different resolution settings were compared. Pulmonary arterial tract attenuation was highest for protocol A (397 ± 110 HU; p vs. B = 0.13; vs. C = 0.02; vs. D < 0.001). CTPA image quality of protocol A was rated superior compared to protocols B and D by reader 1 (p = 0.01; < 0.001), and superior to protocols B, C and D by reader 2 (p < 0.001; 0.02; < 0.001). Otherwise, there were no significant differences in CTPA quality ratings. Subjective iodine map ratings did not vary significantly between protocols A, B, and C. Both readers rated protocol D inferior to all other protocols (p < 0.05). PBV values did not vary significantly between protocols A and B at resolution settings of 1, 4 and 10 (p = 0.10; 0.10; 0.09), while otherwise PBV values displayed a decreasing trend from protocol A to D (p < 0.05). Higher CM volume and IDR are associated with superior CTPA and iodine map quality and higher absolute PBV values.

Translation of Quantitative Imaging Biomarkers into Clinical Chest CT

Quantitative imaging has been proposed as the next frontier in radiology as part of an effort to improve patient care through precision medicine. In 2007, the Radiological Society of North America launched the Quantitative Imaging Biomarkers Alliance (QIBA), an initiative aimed at improving the value and practicality of quantitative imaging biomarkers by reducing variability across devices, sites, patients, and time. Chest CT occupies a strategic position in this initiative because it is one of the most frequently used imaging modalities, anatomically encompassing the leading causes of mortality worldwide. To date, QIBA has worked on profiles focused on the accurate, reproducible, and meaningful use of volumetric measurements of lung lesions in chest CT. However, other quantitative methods are on the verge of translation from research grounds into clinical practice, including (a) assessment of parenchymal and airway changes in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, (b) analysis of perfusion with dual-energy CT biomarkers, and (c) opportunistic screening for coronary atherosclerosis and low bone mass by using chest CT examinations performed for other indications. The rationale for and the key facts related to the application of these quantitative imaging biomarkers in cardiothoracic chest CT are presented. ^©RSNA, 2019 See discussion on this article by Buckler (pp 977-980).

State of the art: utility of multi-energy CT in the evaluation of pulmonary vasculature

Multi-energy computed tomography (MECT) refers to acquisition of CT data at multiple energy levels (typically two levels) using different technologies such as dual-source, dual-layer and rapid tube voltage switching. In addition to conventional/routine diagnostic images, MECT provides additional image sets including iodine maps, virtual non-contrast images, and virtual monoenergetic images. These image sets provide tissue/material characterization beyond what is possible with conventional CT. MECT provides invaluable additional information in the evaluation of pulmonary vasculature, primarily by the assessment of pulmonary perfusion. This functional information provided by the MECT is complementary to the morphological information from a conventional CT angiography. In this article, we review the technique and applications of MECT in the evaluation of pulmonary vasculature.

Quantitative Dual-Energy Computed Tomography Predicts Regional Perfusion Heterogeneity in a Model of Acute Lung Injury

Objective

The aims of this study were to investigate the ability of contrast-enhanced dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) for assessing regional perfusion in a model of acute lung injury, using dynamic first-pass perfusion CT (DynCT) as the criterion standard and to evaluate if changes in lung perfusion caused by prone ventilation are similarly demonstrated by DECT and DynCT.

Methods

This was an institutional review board–approved study, compliant with guidelines for humane care of laboratory animals. A ventilator-induced lung injury protocol was applied to 6 landrace pigs. Perfused blood volume (PBV) and pulmonary blood flow (PBF) were respectively quantified by DECT and DynCT, in supine and prone positions. The lungs were segmented in equally sized regions of interest, namely, dorsal, middle, and ventral. Perfused blood volume and PBF values were normalized by lung density. Regional air fraction (AF) was assessed by triple-material decomposition DECT. Per-animal correlation between PBV and PBF was assessed with Pearson R. Regional differences in PBV, PBF, and AF were evaluated with 1-way analysis of variance and post hoc linear trend analysis (α = 5%).

Results

Mean correlation coefficient between PBV and PBF was 0.70 (range, 0.55–0.98). Higher PBV and PBF values were observed in dorsal versus ventral regions. Dorsal-to-ventral linear trend slopes were −10.24 mL/100 g per zone for PBV (P < 0.001) and −223.0 mL/100 g per minute per zone for PBF (P < 0.001). Prone ventilation also revealed higher PBV and PBF in dorsal versus ventral regions. Dorsal-to-ventral linear trend slopes were −16.16 mL/100 g per zone for PBV (P < 0.001) and −108.2 mL/100 g per minute per zone for PBF (P < 0.001). By contrast, AF was lower in dorsal versus ventral regions in supine position, with dorsal-to-ventral linear trend slope of +5.77%/zone (P < 0.05). Prone ventilation was associated with homogenization of AF distribution among different regions (P = 0.74).

Conclusions

Dual-energy computed tomography PBV is correlated with DynCT-PBF in a model of acute lung injury, and able to demonstrate regional differences in pulmonary perfusion. Perfusion was higher in the dorsal regions, irrespectively to decubitus, with more homogeneous lung aeration in prone position.

Quantitation of Perfused Lung Volume Using Hybrid SPECT/CT Allows Refining the Assessment of Lung Perfusion and Estimating Disease Extent in Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the feasibility of perfusion SPECT/CT for providing quantitative data for estimation of perfusion defect extent in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).

METHODS

Thirty patients with CTEPH underwent Tc-human serum albumin lung perfusion SPECT/CT. Perfusion defects were quantified using 3 different methods: (1) visual, semiquantitative scoring of perfusion defect extent in each lung segment, (2) threshold-based segmentation of perfused lung volumes, and (3) threshold-based segmentation of perfused lung volumes divided by segmented lung volumes at CT (perfusion index). Imaging findings were correlated with right-sided heart catheterization results and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to identify SPECT thresholds for mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAPm) greater than 50 mm Hg.

RESULTS

Assessment of lung perfusion provided similar results using all 3 methods. The perfusion defect score correlated with PAPm (rs = 0.60, P = 0.0005) and was associated with serum levels of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (rs = 0.37, P = 0.04). Perfused lung volume (40% threshold, rs = -0.48, P = 0.007) and perfusion index (40% threshold, rs = -0.50, P = 0.005) decreased as PAPm increased. Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that perfusion defect score (sensitivity, 88%; specificity, 77%; area under the curve [AUC] = 0.89, P = 0.001), perfused lung volume (sensitivity, 88%; specificity, 64%; AUC = 0.80, P = 0.01), and perfusion index (sensitivity, 88%; specificity, 64%; AUC = 0.82, P = 0.009) could identify patients with PAPm of greater than 50 mm Hg.

CONCLUSIONS

Quantitative analysis of perfusion defects at SPECT is feasible, provides a measure of disease severity, and correlates with established clinical parameters. Quantitation of perfusion SPECT may refine the diagnostic approach in CTEPH providing a quantitative imaging biomarker, for example, for therapy monitoring.

Dual-Energy Computed Tomography in Cardiothoracic Vascular Imaging

Dual energy computed tomography is becoming increasingly widespread in clinical practice. It can expand on the traditional density-based data achievable with single energy computed tomography by adding novel applications to help reach a more accurate diagnosis. The implementation of this technology in cardiothoracic vascular imaging allows for improved image contrast, metal artifact reduction, generation of virtual unenhanced images, virtual calcium subtraction techniques, cardiac and pulmonary perfusion evaluation, and plaque characterization. The improved diagnostic performance afforded by dual energy computed tomography is not associated with an increased radiation dose. This review provides an overview of dual energy computed tomography cardiothoracic vascular applications.

Imaging of acute pulmonary embolism: an update

Imaging plays an important role in the evaluation and management of acute pulmonary embolism (PE). Computed tomography (CT) pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is the current standard of care and provides accurate diagnosis with rapid turnaround time. CT also provides information on other potential causes of acute chest pain. With dual-energy CT, lung perfusion abnormalities can also be detected and quantified. Chest radiograph has limited utility, occasionally showing findings of PE or infarction, but is useful in evaluating other potential causes of chest pain. Ventilation-perfusion (VQ) scan demonstrates ventilation-perfusion mismatches in these patients, with several classification schemes, typically ranging from normal to high. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) also provides accurate diagnosis, but is available in only specialized centers and requires higher levels of expertise. Catheter pulmonary angiography is no longer used for diagnosis and is used only for interventional management. Echocardiography is used for risk stratification of these patients. In this article, we review the role of imaging in the evaluation of acute PE.

Histogram-pattern analysis of the lung perfused blood volume for assessment of pulmonary thromboembolism

PURPOSE

We aimed to evaluate the usefulness of histograms of lung perfused blood volume (HLPBV) based on the presence of pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) and the pulmonary embolic burden.

METHODS

A total of 168 patients (55 males; mean age, 62.9 years) underwent contrast-enhanced dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) between January 1 2012 and October 31 2014. Initial DECT images were three-dimensionally reconstructed, and the HLPBV patterns were divided into three types, including the symmetric type (131 patients, 78.0%), gradual type (25 patients, 14.9%), and asymmetric type (12 patients, 7.1%).

RESULTS

Acute PTE was diagnosed in all 12 patients with asymmetric type (100%), 19 of the 25 patients with gradual type (76%) and 24 of the 131 patients with symmetric type (18.3%). HLPBV pattern exhibited correlations with the right/left ventricular diameter ratio (r=0.36, P = 0.007) and CT obstruction index (r=0.63, P < 0.001) in patients with PTEs. When the gradual and asymmetric types were regarded as positive for PTE, the specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were 92.9%, 83.8%, 87.6%, and 81.0%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Histogram-pattern analysis using DECT might be a useful application to diagnose PTE.

Short-Term Subcutaneous Fondaparinux and Oral Edoxaban for Acute Venous Thromboembolism

BACKGROUND

No studies have compared treatment efficacy between subcutaneous (SC) fondaparinux and oral edoxaban, which are categorized as factor Xa inhibitors, for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in the acute phase, and only a limited number of imaging-based quantitative studies have evaluated treatment.Methods and Results:In this open-label, randomized study, 50 patients with acute non-massive pulmonary embolism (PE) and/or deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) were assigned to fondaparinux or edoxaban groups. Lower-limb venous ultrasonography (US), and chest computed tomography (CT) were compared before and 7 days after treatment. Thrombus volume in DVT was calculated using quantitative ultrasound thrombosis (QUT) score on US. For evaluation of PE thrombus volume, lung perfused blood volume (PBV) on CT was calculated. The measurements before and after treatment, respectively, were as follows: QUT score: fondaparinux, 8.1±7.3 to 4.1±4.5; edoxaban, 7.7±6.3 to 4.4±4.3, both significant decreases (P=0.001, P<0.001, respectively); lung PBV: fondaparinux, 32.0±7.8 to 32.1±8.2 HU; edoxaban, 34.2±8.6 to 38.5±11.8 HU (P=0.732, P=0.426, respectively). On subjective CT-based evaluation, all pulmonary artery-related filling defects decreased/disappeared after treatment in both groups (P=NS).

CONCLUSIONS

Both SC fondaparinux and oral edoxaban are effective in acute VTE. Effects on thrombus regression on imaging-based quantitative measurement did not differ between the 2 drugs.

State-of-the-Art Pulmonary CT Angiography for Acute Pulmonary Embolism

OBJECTIVE

Pulmonary CT angiography (CTA) is the imaging modality of choice in suspected acute pulmonary embolism (PE). Current pulmonary CTA techniques involve ever lower doses of contrast medium and radiation along with advanced postprocessing applications to enhance image quality, diagnostic accuracy, and provide added value in patient management. The objective of this article is to summarize these current developments and discuss the appropriate use of state-of-the-art pulmonary CTA.

CONCLUSION

Pulmonary CTA is well established as a fast and reliable means of excluding or diagnosing PE. Continued developments in CT system hardware and postprocessing techniques will allow incremental reductions in radiation and contrast material requirements while improving image quality. Advances in risk stratification and prognostication from pulmonary CTA examinations should further refine its clinical value while minimizing the potential harm from overutilization and overdiagnosis.

The role of dual-energy computed tomography in the assessment of pulmonary function

The assessment of pulmonary function, including ventilation and perfusion status, is important in addition to the evaluation of structural changes of the lung parenchyma in various pulmonary diseases. The dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) technique can provide the pulmonary functional information and high resolution anatomic information simultaneously. The application of DECT for the evaluation of pulmonary function has been investigated in various pulmonary diseases, such as pulmonary embolism, asthma and chronic obstructive lung disease and so on. In this review article, we will present principles and technical aspects of DECT, along with clinical applications for the assessment pulmonary function in various lung diseases.

Dual-energy CT for imaging of pulmonary hypertension: challenges and opportunities

Computed tomography (CT) is routinely used in the evaluation of patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) to assess vascular anatomy and parenchymal morphology. The introduction of dual-energy CT (DECT) enables additional qualitative and quantitative insights into pulmonary hemodynamics and the extent and variability of parenchymal enhancement. Lung perfusion assessed at pulmonary blood volume imaging correlates well with findings at scintigraphy, and pulmonary blood volume defects seen in pulmonary embolism studies infer occlusive disease with increased risk of right heart dysfunction. Similarly, perfusion inhomogeneities seen in patients with PH closely reflect mosaic lung changes and may be useful for severity assessment and prognostication. The use of DECT may increase detection of peripheral thromboembolic disease, which is of particular prognostic importance in patients with chronic thromboembolic PH with microvascular involvement. Other DECT applications for imaging of PH include low-kilovoltage images with greater inherent iodine conspicuity and iodine-selective color-coded maps of vascular perfusion (both of which can improve visualization of vascular enhancement), virtual nonenhanced imaging (which better depicts vascular calcification), and, potentially, ventricular perfusion maps (to assess myocardial ischemia). In addition, quantitative assessment of central vascular and parenchymal enhancement can be used to evaluate pulmonary hemodynamics in patients with PH. The current status and potential advantages and limitations of DECT for imaging of PH are reviewed, and current evidence is supplemented with data from a tertiary referral center for PH.

Dual-energy CT pulmonary angiography in patients with suspected pulmonary embolism: value for the detection and quantification of pulmonary venous congestion

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate if vascular and pulmonary parenchymal enhancement values in dual-energy (DE) CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) can suggest the diagnosis of pulmonary congestion.

METHODS

DE-CTPA images of 90 out of 1321 patients negative for pulmonary embolism showed signs of congestive heart failure. We measured DE-derived pulmonary parenchymal [perfused blood volume (PBV)], pulmonary artery (PA) and left atrium (LA) enhancement values in these patients and in 142 control patients. Enhancement values were compared between the populations and correlated with serum values of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and proBNP, where available.

RESULTS

No significant difference of PBV but significant differences of mean PA and LA enhancement and individual enhancement differences (PA - LA) were found between the populations. PA - LA was higher in patients with elevated BNP and proBNP and was positively correlated with these values. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed a moderate discriminatory power of the PA - LA difference for the presence of cardiac biomarker elevations.

CONCLUSION

PBV in DE-CTPA is not altered in patients with signs of congestive heart failure. However, differences in enhancement values in the pre- and post-pulmonary vessels were found in comparison with the control population.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

Altered pulmonary vascular haemodynamics in pulmonary venous congestion are not reflected in dual-energy-derived PBV maps. In the diagnosis of left heart failure in patients with chest pain and dyspnoea, density measurements in the pulmonary artery and in the left atrium in CTPA images may be a helpful diagnostic tool.

Accuracy of dual-energy computed tomography for the measurement of iodine concentration using cardiac CT protocols: validation in a phantom model

PURPOSE

To assess the accuracy of dual-energy CT (DECT) for the quantification of iodine concentrations in a thoracic phantom across various cardiac DECT protocols and simulated patient sizes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Experiments were performed on first- and second-generation dual-source CT (DSCT) systems in DECT mode using various cardiac DECT protocols. An anthropomorphic thoracic phantom was equipped with tubular inserts containing known iodine concentrations (0-20 mg/mL) in the cardiac chamber and up to two fat-equivalent rings to simulate different patient sizes. DECT-derived iodine concentrations were measured using dedicated software and compared to true concentrations. General linear regression models were used to identify predictors of measurement accuracy

RESULTS

Correlation between measured and true iodine concentrations (n = 72) across CT systems and protocols was excellent (R = 0.994-0.997, P < 0.0001). Mean measurement errors were 3.0 ± 7.0% and -2.9 ± 3.8% for first- and second-generation DSCT, respectively. This error increased with simulated patient size. The second-generation DSCT showed the most stable measurements across a wide range of iodine concentrations and simulated patient sizes.

CONCLUSION

Overall, DECT provides accurate measurements of iodine concentrations across cardiac CT protocols, strengthening the case for DECT-derived blood volume estimates as a surrogate of myocardial blood supply.

KEY POINTS

• Dual-energy CT provides new opportunities for quantitative assessment in cardiac imaging. • DECT can quantify myocardial iodine as a surrogate for myocardial perfusion. • DECT measurements of iodine concentrations are overall very accurate. • The accuracy of such measurements decreases as patient size increases.