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Wang M, Chen H, Ma Y, Bai R, Gao S, Yang L, Guo W, Zhang C, Kang C, Lan Y, Sun Y, Zhang Y, Xiao X, Hou Y. Dual-layer spectral-detector CT for detecting liver steatosis by using proton density fat fraction as reference. Insights Imaging 2024; 15:210. [PMID: 39145877 DOI: 10.1186/s13244-024-01716-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of liver dual-layer spectral-detector CT (SDCT) derived parameters of liver parenchyma for grading steatosis with reference to magnetic resonance imaging-based proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF). METHODS Altogether, 320 consecutive subjects who underwent MRI-PDFF and liver SDCT examinations were recruited and prospectively enrolled from four Chinese hospital centers. Participants were classified into normal (n = 152), mild steatosis (n = 110), and moderate/severe(mod/sev) steatosis (n = 58) groups based on MRI-PDFF. SDCT liver parameters were evaluated using conventional polychromatic CT images (CTpoly), virtual mono-energetic images at 40 keV (CT40kev), the slope of the spectral attenuation curve (λ), the effective atomic number (Zeff), and liver to spleen attenuation ratio (L/S ratio). Linearity between SDCT liver parameters and MRI-PDFF was examined using Spearman correlation. Cutoff values for SDCT liver parameters in determining steatosis grades were identified using the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve analyses. RESULTS SDCT liver parameters demonstrated a strong correlation with PDFF, particularly Zeff (rs = -0.856; p < 0.001). Zeff achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.930 for detecting the presence of steatosis with a sensitivity of 89.4%, a specificity of 82.4%, and an AUC of 0.983 for detecting mod/sev steatosis with a sensitivity of 93.1%, a specificity of 93.5%, the corresponding cutoff values were 7.12 and 6.94, respectively. Zeff also exhibited good diagnostic performance for liver steatosis grading in subgroups, independent of body mass index. CONCLUSION SDCT liver parameters, particularly Zeff, exhibit excellent diagnostic accuracy for grading steatosis. CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT Dual-layer SDCT parameter, Zeff, as a more convenient and accurate imaging biomarker may serve as an alternative indicator for MRI-based proton density fat fraction, exploring the stage and prognosis of liver steatosis, and even metabolic risk assessment. KEY POINTS Liver biopsy is the standard for grading liver steatosis, but is limited by its invasive nature. The diagnostic performance of liver steatosis using SDCT-Zeff outperforms conventional CT parameters. SDCT-Zeff accurately and noninvasively assessed the grade of liver steatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Wang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Hongyu Chen
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Yue Ma
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Ruobing Bai
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Sizhe Gao
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Linlin Yang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Wenli Guo
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Chengjun Kang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Yu Lan
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Yanqiu Sun
- Department of Radiology, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital, Qinghai, P.R. China
| | - Yonggao Zhang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xigang Xiao
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, P.R. China
| | - Yang Hou
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China.
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Zhou X, Cui M, Liu Y, Wu Y, Hu D, Zhai D, Qin M, Shen J, Ju S, Fan G, Cai W. Low Dose Iodinated Contrast Material and Radiation for Virtual Monochromatic Imaging in Craniocervical Dual-Layer Spectral Detector Computed Tomography Angiography: A Prospective and Randomized Study. Acad Radiol 2024; 31:2501-2510. [PMID: 38135625 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2023.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES To investigate the feasibility of virtual monochromatic imaging (VMI) of dual-layer spectral detector computed tomography (SDCT) to reduce iodinated contrast material (CM) and radiation dose in craniocervical computed tomography angiography (CTA). MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 280 consecutively selected patients performed craniocervical CTA with SDCT were prospectively selected and randomly divided into four groups (A, DoseRight index (DRI) 31, iopromide 370mgI/mL, volume 0.8 mL/kg; B, DRI 26, iopromide 370mgI/mL, volume 0.4 mL/kg; C, DRI 26, ioversol 320mgI/mL, volume 0.4 mL/kg; D, DRI 26, iohexol 300mgI/mL, volume 0.4 mL/kg). 50-70 kiloelectron volts (keV) VMIs in group B were reconstructed and compared to group A to select the optimal keV. Then, the optimal keV in groups B, C and D was reconstructed and compared. Objective image quality, including vascular attenuation, image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), was evaluated. Subjective image quality was assessed using a 5-point Likert scale. In addition, the effective dose (ED), iodine load and iodine delivery rate (IDR) were compared between groups A and D. RESULTS 55 keV VMI was the optimal VMI in group B. The objective and subjective image quality of 55 keV VMI in group B were equal to or better than those of the CI in group A. The SNR, CNR and subjective image quality in group D were similar to those in group B (P > 0.05). The ED, iodine load and IDR of group D were reduced by 44%, 59% and 19%, respectively, when compared to those of group A. CONCLUSION Low dose iodinated CM and radiation for 55 keV VMI in craniocervical CTA using SDCT could still provide equivalent or better image quality than the conventional scanning protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuzhi Zhou
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 1055 Sanxiang Road, Gusu, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China (X.Z., M.C., Y.L., Y.W., D.H., D.Z., J.S., G.F., W.C.)
| | - Manman Cui
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 1055 Sanxiang Road, Gusu, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China (X.Z., M.C., Y.L., Y.W., D.H., D.Z., J.S., G.F., W.C.)
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 1055 Sanxiang Road, Gusu, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China (X.Z., M.C., Y.L., Y.W., D.H., D.Z., J.S., G.F., W.C.)
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 1055 Sanxiang Road, Gusu, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China (X.Z., M.C., Y.L., Y.W., D.H., D.Z., J.S., G.F., W.C.)
| | - Dongliang Hu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 1055 Sanxiang Road, Gusu, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China (X.Z., M.C., Y.L., Y.W., D.H., D.Z., J.S., G.F., W.C.)
| | - Duchang Zhai
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 1055 Sanxiang Road, Gusu, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China (X.Z., M.C., Y.L., Y.W., D.H., D.Z., J.S., G.F., W.C.)
| | - Mingyu Qin
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215026, Jiangsu, China (M.Q.)
| | - Junkang Shen
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 1055 Sanxiang Road, Gusu, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China (X.Z., M.C., Y.L., Y.W., D.H., D.Z., J.S., G.F., W.C.)
| | - Shenghong Ju
- Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China (S.J.)
| | - Guohua Fan
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 1055 Sanxiang Road, Gusu, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China (X.Z., M.C., Y.L., Y.W., D.H., D.Z., J.S., G.F., W.C.)
| | - Wu Cai
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 1055 Sanxiang Road, Gusu, Suzhou, 215004, Jiangsu, China (X.Z., M.C., Y.L., Y.W., D.H., D.Z., J.S., G.F., W.C.).
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Kristiansen CH, Tetteroo PM, Dobrolinska MM, Lauritzen PM, Velthuis BK, Greuter MJW, Suchá D, de Jong PA, van der Werf NR. Halved contrast medium dose coronary dual-layer CT-angiography - phantom study of tube current and patient characteristics. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2024; 40:931-940. [PMID: 38386192 PMCID: PMC11052773 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-024-03062-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Virtual mono-energetic images (VMI) using dual-layer computed tomography (DLCT) enable substantial contrast medium (CM) reductions. However, the combined impact of patient size, tube voltage, and heart rate (HR) on VMI of coronary CT angiography (CCTA) remains unknown. This phantom study aimed to assess VMI levels achieving comparable contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) in CCTA at 50% CM dose across varying tube voltages, patient sizes, and HR, compared to the reference protocol (100% CM dose, conventional at 120 kVp). A 5 mm artificial coronary artery with 100% (400 HU) and 50% (200 HU) iodine CM-dose was positioned centrally in an anthropomorphic thorax phantom. Horizontal coronary movement was matched to HR (at 0, < 60, 60-75, > 75 bpm), with varying patient sizes simulated using phantom extension rings. Raw data was acquired using a clinical CCTA protocol at 120 and 140 kVp (five repetitions). VMI images (40-70 keV, 5 keV steps) were then reconstructed; non-overlapping 95% CNR confidence intervals indicated significant differences from the reference. Higher CM-dose, reduced VMI, slower HR, higher tube voltage, and smaller patient sizes demonstrated a trend of higher CNR. Regardless of HR, patient size, and tube voltage, no significant CNR differences were found compared to the reference, with 100% CM dose at 60 keV, or 50% CM dose at 40 keV. DLCT reconstructions at 40 keV from 120 to 140 kVp acquisitions facilitate 50% CM dose reduction for various patient sizes and HR with equivalent CNR to conventional CCTA at 100% CM dose, although clinical validation is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Kristiansen
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Intervention, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Department of Life Sciences and Health, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - P M Tetteroo
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - M M Dobrolinska
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Division of Cardiology and Structural Heart Diseases, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - P M Lauritzen
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Intervention, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Department of Life Sciences and Health, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - B K Velthuis
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M J W Greuter
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - D Suchá
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - P A de Jong
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Elias Michael A, Schoenbeck D, Michael Woeltjen M, Boriesosdick J, Henning Niehoff J, Surov A, Borggrefe J, Schmidt B, Panknin C, Hickethier T, Maintz D, Christian Bunck A, Johannes Gertz R, Robert Kroeger J. Photon counting computed tomography of in-stent-stenosis in a phantom: Optimal virtual monoenergetic imaging in ultra high resolution. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27636. [PMID: 38509988 PMCID: PMC10950599 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Rationale and objectives Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is becoming increasingly important for the diagnostic workup of coronary artery disease, nevertheless, imaging of in-stent stenosis remains challenging. For the first time, spectral imaging in Ultra High Resolution (UHR) is now possible in clinically available photon counting CT. The aim of this work is to determine the optimal virtual monoenergetic image (VMI) for imaging in-stent stenoses in cardiac stents. Materials and methods 6 stents with inserted hypodense stenoses were scanned in an established phantom in UHR mode. Images were reconstructed with 3 different kernels for spectral data (Qr56, Qr64, Qr72) with varying levels of sharpness. Based on region of interest (ROI) measurements image quality parameters including contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were analyzed for all available VMI (40 keV-190 keV). Finally, based on quantitative results and VMI used in clinical routine, a set of VMI was included in a qualitative reading. Results CNR showed significant variations across different keV levels (p < 0.001). Due to reduced noise there was a focal maximum in the VMI around 65 keV. The peak values were observed for kernel Qr56 at 116 keV with 19.47 ± 8.67, for kernel Qr64 at 114 keV with 13.56 ± 6.58, and for kernel Qr72 at 106 keV with 12.19 ± 3.25. However, in the qualitative evaluation the VMI with lower keV (55 keV) performed best. Conclusions Based on these experimental results, a photon counting CCTA in UHR with stents should be reconstructed with the Qr72 kernel for the assessment of in-stent stenoses, and a VMI 55 keV should be computed for the evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwed Elias Michael
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Denise Schoenbeck
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Matthias Michael Woeltjen
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jan Boriesosdick
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Julius Henning Niehoff
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Alexey Surov
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jan Borggrefe
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | | | | | - Tilman Hickethier
- Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - David Maintz
- Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alexander Christian Bunck
- Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Roman Johannes Gertz
- Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jan Robert Kroeger
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Leng Y, Liu Y, Li S, Wang X, Deng W, Wang Y, Gong L. Feasibility of using 8 mL of iodinated contrast media in cerebral computed tomographic angiography with a dual-layer spectral detector. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2024; 14:514-526. [PMID: 38223031 PMCID: PMC10784050 DOI: 10.21037/qims-23-914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Background Virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) at a low energy level can improve image quality when the amount of iodinated contrast media (CM) is reduced. The purpose was to evaluate the feasibility of using an extremely low CM volume and injection rate in cerebral computed tomography angiography (CTA) on a dual-layer spectral detector computed tomography (CT). Methods Patients who were clinically suspected of intracranial aneurysm or cerebrovascular diseases were included in our study (from June to November 2022). In this prospective study, 80 patients were randomly enrolled into group A (8 mL of CM with a 1-mL/s flow rate) or group B (40 mL of CM with 4-mL/s flow rate). The VMIs at 40-70 keV in group A and polychromatic conventional images in the 2 groups were reconstructed. CT attenuation, image noise, contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) were evaluated via the t-test or Mann-Whitney test (2 groups), while analysis of variance or Kruskal-Wallis test (multiple groups). Subjective image quality was assessed on a 5-point scale. Results In group A, the subjective image quality score, CT attenuation, and CNR of the internal carotid artery (ICA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA) were the highest on VMIs at 40 keV. The image noise on VMIs at 40 keV was 5.08±0.84 Hounsfield units. The subjective image quality score, CT value of the ICA, MCA, and cerebral parenchyma on VMIs at 40 keV in group A were similar to those in group B (all P values >0.05). Compared to those in group B, the VMIs at 40 keV in group A demonstrated a significantly higher mean SNR and CNR of the ICA (mean SNR: 46.22±20.18 vs. 34.32±12.40, P=0.002; CNR: 55.47±13.43 vs. 46.18±12.30, P=0.002) and MCA [SNR: 13.66 (9.78, 20.29) vs. 9.99 (7.53, 14.00), P=0.003; CNR: 47.00±12.71 vs. 39.45±10.47, P=0.005]. Conclusions Cerebral CTA on VMIs at 40 keV with 8 mL of CM and a 1-mL/s injection rate can provide diagnostic image quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinping Leng
- Department of Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Shuhao Li
- Department of Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiwen Wang
- Department of Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Weiwei Deng
- Clinical and Technical Support, Philips Healthcare, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Clinical and Technical Support, Philips Healthcare, Shanghai, China
| | - Lianggeng Gong
- Department of Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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Wang A, Li W, Huang W, Luo M, Xiao W, Qin C, Dong S, Liu H, Li Z, Diao K. Dual-layer spectral computed tomography aortography using a seventy-five-percent-reduced iodine dose protocol and multiparameter spectral imaging: comparison with conventional computed tomography imaging. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2023; 13:6456-6467. [PMID: 37869326 PMCID: PMC10585532 DOI: 10.21037/qims-23-101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Background Computed tomography angiography (CTA) is the recommended diagnostic and follow-up imaging modality for acute aortic dissection (AD). However, the high-contrast medium burden associated with repeated CT aortography follow-ups remains a significant concern. This prospective study aimed to assess whether an ultra-low contrast dose (75% cutoff) aortic CTA protocol on dual-layer spectral CT could achieve comparable image quality with the full dose protocol. We also investigated the image quality of the virtual noncontrast (VNC) images derived from the ultra-low dose protocol. Methods This study included 37 consecutive patients who were referred to aortic CTA from May 2022 to August 2022. The enrolled patients underwent full-dose contrast CTA and ultra-low dose (reduced to 25% of conventional) contrast CTA on dual-layer spectral CT in 1 day. Virtual monochromatic images (VMIs) were reconstructed with 40 and 70 keV. The VNC images were reconstructed for both protocols. Objective image quality evaluation, recorded as signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs), was compared between the groups using 1-way analysis of variance and post hoc analysis with Bonferroni correction. Subjective image quality was also compared between the groups. Finally, VNC images derived from the low-dose (VNClow) and full-dose (VNCfull) protocols were compared to the true noncontrast (TNC) images. Results Neither CNR nor SNR was lower for the 40-keV images reconstructed from the ultra-low dose group compared to the conventional images. Both were significantly higher than those of the 70-keV images. Regarding subjective image quality, vessel enhancement was not significantly different between the 40-keV VMI and full-dose images [ascending aorta (AAO): 4.37±0.46 vs. 4.57±0.48, P=0.096; brachiocephalic arteries: 4.34±0.45 vs. 4.51±0.49, P=0.152; abdominal aortic side branch: 4.42±0.48 vs. 4.51±0.49, P=0.480]. The VNClow images were similar to the TNC images but significantly different from the VNCfull images (P<0.001). Conclusions Ultra-low contrast aortic CTA with a 75%-reduced iodine dose using dual-layer spectral CT and the derived VNC achieved image quality comparable to that of conventional CTA and TNC images.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aijie Wang
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanjiang Li
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenyu Huang
- West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mao Luo
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wendan Xiao
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chaoyi Qin
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shushan Dong
- Clinical Science, Philips Healthcare, Beijing, China
| | - Haiwei Liu
- Advanced Clinical Application, Philips Healthcare, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenlin Li
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kaiyue Diao
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Rajiah PS, Dunning CAS, Rajendran K, Tandon Y, Ahmed Z, Larson N, Collins JD, Thorne J, Williamson E, Fletcher JG, McCollough C, Leng S. High-Pitch Multienergy Coronary CT Angiography in Dual-Source Photon-Counting Detector CT Scanner at Low Iodinated Contrast Dose. Invest Radiol 2023; 58:681-690. [PMID: 36822655 PMCID: PMC10591289 DOI: 10.1097/rli.0000000000000961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the high-helical pitch, multienergy (ME) scanning mode of a clinical dual-source photon-counting detector (PCD) computed tomography (CT) and the benefit of virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) for low-contrast-dose coronary CT angiography (CTA). MATERIALS AND METHODS High-pitch (3.2) ME coronary CTA was performed in PCD-CT in 27 patients using low contrast dose (30 mL of iohexol 350 mg/mL) and in 26 patients at routine contrast dose (60 mL). Low-energy-threshold 120 kV images (also known as T3D images) and 50 kiloelectron volts (50 keV) and 100 kiloelectron volts (100 keV) VMIs were reconstructed using a 1024 × 1024 matrix and 0.6-mm slices. The CT numbers, noise, and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were measured in the ascending aorta (AA), left main coronary artery (LMCA), and distal left anterior descending (LAD) artery. Confidence in grading luminal stenosis with calcific plaque, noncalcific plaque, and stent was evaluated by 2 independent readers on a 0-100 scale (0 the lowest), and a CAD-RADS score was assigned. Image contrast enhancement, sharpness, noise, artifacts, and overall image quality were rated using a 5-point ordinal scale (1 the lowest). RESULTS The radiation doses (CTDI) in low- and routine-contrast cohorts were 2.5 ± 0.6 mGy and 3.1 ± 1.7 mGy, respectively ( P = 0.12). At all measured locations, the mean CT number was >300 HU in 120 kV (LMCA 382.9 ± 76.2, distal LAD 341.0 ± 53.9, AA 399.5 ± 76.1) and 50 keV images (LMCA 667.5 ± 139.9, distal LAD 578.1 ± 121.5, AA 700.8 ± 142.5) in the low-contrast cohort, with a 96% increase in CT numbers for 50 keV over 120 kV. The CT numbers were significantly higher ( P < 0.0001) in 50 keV than 120 kV and 100 keV VMI. The CNR was also significantly ( P < 0.0001) higher in 50 keV than 120 kV and 100 keV images in all vessels. Confidence in the assessment of luminal stenosis in the presence of calcific plaque was significantly higher ( P = 0.001) with the addition of 100 keV VMI (median score, 100) than using 50 keV alone (median score, 70) and 120 kV (median score, 70) for reader 1, but no significant differences were seen for reader 2 who had same median scores of 100 for all image types. The confidence in the assessment of luminal stenosis within a stent improved with the use of 100 keV images for both readers (reader 1: median scores for 50 + 100 keV = 100, 50 keV = 82.5, 120 kV = 82.5; reader 2: 50 + 100 keV = 100, 50 keV = 90, 120 kV = 90). There were no significant differences in confidence scores for assessment of luminal stenosis from noncalcific plaques for both readers. The reader-averaged qualitative scores for vascular enhancement and overall image quality were significantly higher for 50 keV VMI than for 120 kV images in both low- and routine-contrast dose cohorts. The image sharpness was nonsignificantly higher at 50 keV VMI than 120 kV images, and the artifact score was comparable for 50 keV VMI and 120 kV images. The noise was higher in 50 keV VMI than in 120 kV images. CONCLUSIONS High-pitch ME PCD-CT mode produced diagnostic quality coronary CTA images at low radiation and iodinated contrast doses. The availability of ME VMIs significantly improved the CNR, overall image quality, and confidence in assessment of luminal stenosis in the presence of calcific plaques and stents, and resulted in change of CAD-RADS categories in 9 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chelsea A. S. Dunning
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
| | - Kishore Rajendran
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
| | - Yasmeen Tandon
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
| | - Zaki Ahmed
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
| | - Nicholas Larson
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
| | - Jeremy D. Collins
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
| | - Jamison Thorne
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
| | - Eric Williamson
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
| | - Joel G. Fletcher
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
| | - Cynthia McCollough
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
| | - Shuai Leng
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW Rochester, MN, United States 55905
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8
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D’Angelo T, Lanzafame LRM, Micari A, Blandino A, Yel I, Koch V, Gruenewald LD, Vogl TJ, Booz C, Bucolo GM, Cannizzaro MT, Ascenti G, Mazziotti S. Improved Coronary Artery Visualization Using Virtual Monoenergetic Imaging from Dual-Layer Spectral Detector CT Angiography. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2675. [PMID: 37627934 PMCID: PMC10453590 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13162675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: To evaluate if coronary CT angiography (CCTA) monoenergetic reconstructions, obtained with a dual-layer spectral detector computed tomography (DLCT) system, offer improved image quality compared with 120 kVp conventional images without affecting the quantitative assessment of coronary stenoses. Methods: Fifty CCTA datasets (30 men; mean age: 61.6 ± 12.3 years) acquired with a DLCT system were reconstructed using virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) from 40 to 100 keV with 10 keV increment and compared with conventional images. An analysis of objective image quality was performed, evaluating the signal- and contrast-to-noise ratio. For the subjective assessment, two readers used a 5-point Likert scoring system to evaluate sharpness, noise, demarcation of coronary plaques, vascular contrast, and an overall score. Furthermore, coronary stenoses were analyzed for each vessel to describe the diagnostic agreement between monoenergetic images and conventional images. Results: The objective image analysis showed that all reconstructions from 70 keV to 40 keV show higher SNR (from 61.33 ± 12.46 to 154.22 ± 42.91, respectively) and CNR (from 51.45 ± 11.19 to 135.63 ± 39.38, respectively) compared with conventional images (all p < 0.001). The 40 keV monoenergetic images obtained the best average score for sharpness, vascular contrast, and for the overall impression (all with p < 0.001). The detection and grading of stenoses of the coronary arteries with conventional and monoenergetic images at 70 keV and 40 keV showed an overall excellent interobserver agreement (k= 0.81 [0.72-0.91]). Conclusions: The 40 keV virtual monoenergetic images obtained with a DLCT system allow the objective and subjective image quality of coronary CT angiography to be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso D’Angelo
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Unit, BIOMORF Department, University Hospital Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (L.R.M.L.); (A.B.); (G.M.B.); (G.A.); (S.M.)
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ludovica R. M. Lanzafame
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Unit, BIOMORF Department, University Hospital Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (L.R.M.L.); (A.B.); (G.M.B.); (G.A.); (S.M.)
| | - Antonino Micari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, DIMED, University Hospital Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy;
| | - Alfredo Blandino
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Unit, BIOMORF Department, University Hospital Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (L.R.M.L.); (A.B.); (G.M.B.); (G.A.); (S.M.)
| | - Ibrahim Yel
- Division of Experimental Imaging, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (I.Y.); (V.K.); (L.D.G.); (T.J.V.); (C.B.)
| | - Vitali Koch
- Division of Experimental Imaging, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (I.Y.); (V.K.); (L.D.G.); (T.J.V.); (C.B.)
| | - Leon D. Gruenewald
- Division of Experimental Imaging, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (I.Y.); (V.K.); (L.D.G.); (T.J.V.); (C.B.)
| | - Thomas J. Vogl
- Division of Experimental Imaging, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (I.Y.); (V.K.); (L.D.G.); (T.J.V.); (C.B.)
| | - Christian Booz
- Division of Experimental Imaging, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (I.Y.); (V.K.); (L.D.G.); (T.J.V.); (C.B.)
| | - Giuseppe M. Bucolo
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Unit, BIOMORF Department, University Hospital Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (L.R.M.L.); (A.B.); (G.M.B.); (G.A.); (S.M.)
| | - Maria Teresa Cannizzaro
- Radiology Unit (CAST), University Hospital Catania, “Policlinico G. Rodolico–San Marco”, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Giorgio Ascenti
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Unit, BIOMORF Department, University Hospital Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (L.R.M.L.); (A.B.); (G.M.B.); (G.A.); (S.M.)
| | - Silvio Mazziotti
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Unit, BIOMORF Department, University Hospital Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (L.R.M.L.); (A.B.); (G.M.B.); (G.A.); (S.M.)
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Ma Y, Zhen Y, Wang M, Gao L, Dang Y, Shang J, Chen X, Ma S, Zhou K, Feng K, Xin Y, Hou Y, Guo C. Associations between the serum triglyceride-glucose index and pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation and plaque features using dual-layer spectral detector computed tomography: a cross-sectional study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1166117. [PMID: 37234808 PMCID: PMC10206237 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1166117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a reliable alternative marker for insulin resistance (IR). Pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT) can indirectly reflect coronary inflammation. IR and coronary inflammation play a key role in the development and progression of coronary atherosclerosis. Therefore, this study investigated the relationships between the TyG index, PCAT and atherosclerotic plaque characteristics to explore whether IR might lead to coronary artery atherosclerosis progression by inducing coronary inflammation. Methods We retrospectively collected data on patients with chest pain who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography using spectral detector computed tomography at our institution from June to December 2021. The patients were grouped based on their TyG index levels: T1 (low), T2 (medium), and T3 (high). Each patient was assessed for total plaque volume, plaque load, maximum stenosis, the plaque component volume proportion, high-risk plaques(HRPs), and plaque characteristics (including low attenuation plaques, positive remodeling, a napkin ring sign, and spot calcification). PCAT quantification was performed on the proximal right coronary artery using the fat attenuation index (FAI) measured from a conventional multicolor computed tomography image (FAI120kVp), a spectral virtual single-energy image (FAI40keV), and the slope of the spectral HU curve (λHU). Results We enrolled 201 patients. The proportion of patients with maximum plaque stenosis, positive remodeling, low-density plaques, and HRPs increased as the TyG index level increased. Moreover, the FAI40keV and λHU significantly differed among the three groups, and we identified good positive correlations between FAI40keV and λHU and the TyG index (r = 0.319, P <0.01 and r = 0.325, P <0.01, respectively). FAI120kVp did not significantly differ among the groups. FAI40keV had the highest area under the curve, with an optimal cutoff value of -130.5 HU for predicting a TyG index value of ≥9.13. The multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated that FAI40keV and λHU were independently positively related to a high TyG index level (standardized regression coefficients: 0.117 [P <0.001] and 0.134 [P <0.001], respectively). Conclusions Patients with chest pain and a higher TyG index level were more likely to have severe stenosis and HRPs. Moreover, FAI40keV and λHU had good correlations with the serum TyG index, which may noninvasively reflect PCAT inflammation under insulin resistance. These results could help explain the mechanism of plaque progression and instability in patients with insulin resistance might be related to IR-induced coronary inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Ma
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yanhua Zhen
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lingfeng Gao
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuxue Dang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jin Shang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xujiao Chen
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shaowei Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ke Zhou
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Kai Feng
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yang Xin
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yang Hou
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Chuanji Guo
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Sartoretti T, McDermott M, Mergen V, Euler A, Schmidt B, Jost G, Wildberger JE, Alkadhi H. Photon-counting detector coronary CT angiography: impact of virtual monoenergetic imaging and iterative reconstruction on image quality. Br J Radiol 2023; 96:20220466. [PMID: 36633005 PMCID: PMC9975359 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20220466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the impact of low kilo-electronvolt (keV) virtual monoenergetic image (VMI) energies and iterative reconstruction on image quality of clinical photon-counting detector coronary CT angiography (CCTA). METHODS CCTA with PCD-CT (prospective ECG-triggering, 120 kVp, automatic tube current modulation) was performed in a high-end cardiovascular phantom with dynamic flow, pulsatile heart motion, and including different calcified plaques with various stenosis grades and in 10 consecutive patients. VMI at 40,50,60 and 70 keV were reconstructed without (QIR-off) and with all quantum iterative reconstruction (QIR) levels (QIR-1 to 4). In the phantom, noise power spectrum, vessel attenuation, contrast-to-noise-ratio (CNR), and vessel sharpness were measured. Two readers graded stenoses in the phantom and graded overall image quality, subjective noise, vessel sharpness, vascular contrast, and coronary artery plaque delineation on 5-point Likert scales in patients. RESULTS In the phantom, noise texture was only slightly affected by keV and QIR while noise increased by 69% from 70 keV QIR-4 to 40 keV QIR-off. Reconstructions at 40 keV QIR-4 exhibited the highest CNR (46.1 ± 1.8), vessel sharpness (425 ± 42 ∆HU/mm), and vessel attenuation (1098 ± 14 HU). Stenosis measurements were not affected by keV or QIR level (p > 0.12) with an average error of 3%/6% for reader 1/reader 2, respectively. In patients, across all subjective categories and both readers, 40 keV QIR-3 and QIR-4 images received the best scores (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Forty keV VMI with QIR-4 significantly improved image quality of CCTA with PCD-CT. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE PCD-CT at 40 keV and QIR-4 improves image quality of CCTA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Victor Mergen
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - André Euler
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Hatem Alkadhi
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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11
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Yu X, Cai A, Li L, Jiao Z, Yan B. Low-dose spectral reconstruction with global, local, and nonlocal priors based on subspace decomposition. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2023; 13:889-911. [PMID: 36819241 PMCID: PMC9929412 DOI: 10.21037/qims-22-647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Multienergy computed tomography (MECT) is a promising imaging modality for material decomposition, lesion detection, and other clinical applications. However, there is an urgent need to design efficient and accurate algorithms to solve the inverse problems related to spectral reconstruction and improve image quality, especially under low-dose and incomplete datasets. The key issue for MECT reconstruction is how to efficiently describe the interchannel and intrachannel priors in multichannel images. Methods In this model, in order to correlate the similarities of interchannel images and regularize the multichannel images, the global, local, and nonlocal priors are jointly integrated into the low-dose MECT reconstruction model. First, the subspace decomposition method first employs the global low-rankness to map the original MECT images to the low-dimensional eigenimages. Then, nonlocal self-similarity of the eigenimages is cascaded into the optimization model. Additionally, the L0 quasi-norm on gradient images is incorporated into the proposed method to further enhance the local sparsity of intrachannel images. The alternating direction method is applied to solve the optimization model in an iterative scheme. Results Simulation, preclinical, and real datasets were applied to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. From the simulation dataset, the new method was found to reduce the root-mean-square error (RMSE) by 42.31% compared with the latest research fourth-order nonlocal tensor decomposition MECT reconstruction (FONT-SIR) method under 160 projection views. The calculation time of an iteration for the proposed method was 23.07% of the FONT-SIR method. The results of material decomposition in real mouse data further confirmed the accuracy of the proposed method for different materials. Conclusions We developed a method in which the global, local, and nonlocal priors are jointly used to develop the reconstruction model for low-dose MECT, where the global low-rankness and nonlocal prior are cascaded by subspace decomposition and block-matching, and the L0 sparsity is applied to express the local prior. The results of the experiments demonstrate that the proposed method based on subspace improves computational efficiency and has advantages in noise suppression and structure preservation over competing algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohuan Yu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Imaging and Intelligent Processing, PLA Strategic Support Force Information Engineering University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ailong Cai
- Henan Key Laboratory of Imaging and Intelligent Processing, PLA Strategic Support Force Information Engineering University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lei Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Imaging and Intelligent Processing, PLA Strategic Support Force Information Engineering University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhiyong Jiao
- Beijing Science and Technology Information Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Yan
- Henan Key Laboratory of Imaging and Intelligent Processing, PLA Strategic Support Force Information Engineering University, Zhengzhou, China
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12
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Multi-Energy CT Applications. Radiol Clin North Am 2023; 61:1-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rcl.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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13
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Sauerbeck J, Adam G, Meyer M. Spectral CT in Oncology. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2023; 195:21-29. [PMID: 36167316 DOI: 10.1055/a-1902-9949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spectral CT is gaining increasing clinical importance with multiple potential applications, including oncological imaging. Spectral CT-specific image data offers multiple advantages over conventional CT image data through various post-processing algorithms, which will be highlighted in the following review. METHODOLOGY The purpose of this review article is to provide an overview of potential useful oncologic applications of spectral CT and to highlight specific spectral CT pitfalls. The technical background, clinical advantages of primary and follow-up spectral CT exams in oncology, and the application of appropriate spectral tools will be highlighted. RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS Spectral CT imaging offers multiple advantages over conventional CT imaging, particularly in the field of oncology. The combination of virtual native and low monoenergetic images leads to improved detection and characterization of oncologic lesions. Iodine-map images may provide a potential imaging biomarker for assessing treatment response. KEY POINTS · The most important spectral CT reconstructions for oncology imaging are virtual unenhanced, iodine map, and virtual monochromatic reconstructions.. · The combination of virtual unenhanced and low monoenergetic reconstructions leads to better detection and characterization of the vascularization of solid tumors.. · Iodine maps can be a surrogate parameter for tumor perfusion and potentially used as a therapy monitoring parameter.. · For radiotherapy planning, the relative electron density and the effective atomic number of a tissue can be calculated.. CITATION FORMAT · Sauerbeck J, Adam G, Meyer M. Onkologische Bildgebung mittels Spektral-CT. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2023; 195: 21 - 29.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Sauerbeck
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gerhard Adam
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mathias Meyer
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany, Hamburg, Germany
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Dell’Aversana S, Ascione R, De Giorgi M, De Lucia DR, Cuocolo R, Boccalatte M, Sibilio G, Napolitano G, Muscogiuri G, Sironi S, Di Costanzo G, Cavaglià E, Imbriaco M, Ponsiglione A. Dual-Energy CT of the Heart: A Review. J Imaging 2022; 8:jimaging8090236. [PMID: 36135402 PMCID: PMC9503750 DOI: 10.3390/jimaging8090236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) represents an emerging imaging technique which consists of the acquisition of two separate datasets utilizing two different X-ray spectra energies. Several cardiac DECT applications have been assessed, such as virtual monoenergetic images, virtual non-contrast reconstructions, and iodine myocardial perfusion maps, which are demonstrated to improve diagnostic accuracy and image quality while reducing both radiation and contrast media administration. This review will summarize the technical basis of DECT and review the principal cardiac applications currently adopted in clinical practice, exploring possible future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Dell’Aversana
- Department of Radiology, Santa Maria delle Grazie Hospital, ASL Napoli 2 Nord, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Raffaele Ascione
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Marco De Giorgi
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Davide Raffaele De Lucia
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Renato Cuocolo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Marco Boccalatte
- Coronary Care Unit, Santa Maria delle Grazie Hospital, ASL Napoli 2 Nord, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Gerolamo Sibilio
- Coronary Care Unit, Santa Maria delle Grazie Hospital, ASL Napoli 2 Nord, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Muscogiuri
- Department of Radiology, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, San Luca Hospital, University Milano Bicocca, 20149 Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Sironi
- Department of Radiology, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, San Luca Hospital, University Milano Bicocca, 20149 Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Costanzo
- Department of Radiology, Santa Maria delle Grazie Hospital, ASL Napoli 2 Nord, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Enrico Cavaglià
- Department of Radiology, Santa Maria delle Grazie Hospital, ASL Napoli 2 Nord, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Massimo Imbriaco
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Ponsiglione
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
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15
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Michael AE, Boriesosdick J, Schoenbeck D, Lopez-Schmidt I, Kroeger JR, Moenninghoff C, Horstmeier S, Pennig L, Borggrefe J, Niehoff JH. Photon Counting CT Angiography of the Head and Neck: Image Quality Assessment of Polyenergetic and Virtual Monoenergetic Reconstructions. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12061306. [PMID: 35741116 PMCID: PMC9222087 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12061306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The purpose of the present study was the evaluation of the image quality of polyenergetic and monoenergetic reconstructions (PERs and MERs) of CT angiographies (CTAs) of the head and neck acquired with the novel photon counting CT (PCCT) method in clinical routine. Methods: Thirty-seven patients were enrolled in this retrospective study. Quantitative image parameters of the extracranial, intracranial and cerebral arteries were evaluated for the PER and MER (40–120 keV). Additionally, two radiologists rated the perceived image quality. Results: The mean CTDIvol used in the PCCT was 8.31 ± 1.19 mGy. The highest signal within the vessels was detected in the 40 keV MER, whereas the lowest noise was detected in the 115 keV MER. The most favorable contrast-to-noise-ratio (CNR) and signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) were detected in the PER and low keV MER. In the qualitative image analysis, the PER was superior to the MER in all rated criteria. For MER, 60–65 keV was rated as best image quality. Conclusion: Overall, PCCT offers excellent image quality for CTAs of the head and neck. At the current state, the PER of the PCCT seems to be the most favorable reconstruction for diagnostic reporting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwed Elias Michael
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 32429 Minden, Germany; (J.B.); (D.S.); (I.L.-S.); (J.R.K.); (C.M.); (S.H.); (J.B.); (J.H.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-571-790-4601
| | - Jan Boriesosdick
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 32429 Minden, Germany; (J.B.); (D.S.); (I.L.-S.); (J.R.K.); (C.M.); (S.H.); (J.B.); (J.H.N.)
| | - Denise Schoenbeck
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 32429 Minden, Germany; (J.B.); (D.S.); (I.L.-S.); (J.R.K.); (C.M.); (S.H.); (J.B.); (J.H.N.)
| | - Ingo Lopez-Schmidt
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 32429 Minden, Germany; (J.B.); (D.S.); (I.L.-S.); (J.R.K.); (C.M.); (S.H.); (J.B.); (J.H.N.)
| | - Jan Robert Kroeger
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 32429 Minden, Germany; (J.B.); (D.S.); (I.L.-S.); (J.R.K.); (C.M.); (S.H.); (J.B.); (J.H.N.)
| | - Christoph Moenninghoff
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 32429 Minden, Germany; (J.B.); (D.S.); (I.L.-S.); (J.R.K.); (C.M.); (S.H.); (J.B.); (J.H.N.)
| | - Sebastian Horstmeier
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 32429 Minden, Germany; (J.B.); (D.S.); (I.L.-S.); (J.R.K.); (C.M.); (S.H.); (J.B.); (J.H.N.)
| | - Lenhard Pennig
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany;
| | - Jan Borggrefe
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 32429 Minden, Germany; (J.B.); (D.S.); (I.L.-S.); (J.R.K.); (C.M.); (S.H.); (J.B.); (J.H.N.)
| | - Julius Henning Niehoff
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 32429 Minden, Germany; (J.B.); (D.S.); (I.L.-S.); (J.R.K.); (C.M.); (S.H.); (J.B.); (J.H.N.)
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Dang Y, Chen X, Ma S, Ma Y, Ma Q, Zhou K, Liu T, Wang K, Hou Y. Association of Pericoronary Adipose Tissue Quality Determined by Dual-Layer Spectral Detector CT With Severity of Coronary Artery Disease: A Preliminary Study. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:720127. [PMID: 34660721 PMCID: PMC8514719 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.720127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT) is considered as a source of inflammatory mediators, leading to the development of coronary atherosclerosis. The study aimed to investigate the correlation between PCAT quality derived from dual-layer spectral detector CT (SDCT) and the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD), and whether PCAT parameters were independently associated with the presence of CAD. Materials and Methods: A total of 403 patients with symptoms of chest pain who underwent SDCT were included. PCAT quality including fat attenuation index (FAI) measured from conventional polychromatic CT images (FAI120kvp) and spectral virtual mono-energetic images at 40 keV (FAI40keV), slope of spectral HU curve (λHU), and effective atomic number (Eff-Z) were measured around the lesions representing the maximal degree of vascular stenosis in each patient. Meanwhile, overall epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) attenuation was acquired in the conventional polychromatic energy imaging. Results: FAI40keV, λHU, Eff-Z, and FAI120kvp increased along with the degree of CAD in general and were superior to the overall EAT attenuation for detecting the presence of CAD. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that FAI40keV was the most powerful independent indicator (odds ratio 1.058, 95% CI 1.044–1.073; p < 0.001) of CAD among these parameters. Using an optimal cut-off (−131.8 HU), FAI40keV showed higher diagnostic accuracy of 80.6% compared with the other parameters. Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that FAI40keV on SDCT may be an appealing surrogate maker to allow monitoring of PCAT changes in the development of CAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxue Dang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xujiao Chen
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shaowei Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Quanmei Ma
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ke Zhou
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ting Liu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Kunhua Wang
- Department of Radiology, The People's Hospital of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Yang Hou
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Han P, Tang J, Wang X, Su Y, Li G, Deng K. Research on the distribution spectrum of atherosclerotic plaques in patients with suspected coronary artery disease and the noninvasive screening model for coronary atherosclerosis burden. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2021; 11:3274-3285. [PMID: 34249653 PMCID: PMC8250030 DOI: 10.21037/qims-20-901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to establish a non-invasive and simple screening model of coronary atherosclerosis burden based on the associations between multiple blood parameters and total plaque score (TPS), segment-stenosis score (SSS), coronary artery disease severity (CADS) in coronary artery disease (CAD) and thus reduce unnecessary coronary angiography (CAG). METHODS A total of 1,366 patients with suspected CAD who underwent CAG were included in this study. The clinical risk factors [age, gender, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and glycated hemoglobin (GHB)] were collected. The presence of plaques and lumen stenosis was assessed based on CAG imaging. The TPS, SSS, and CADS were calculated, and the distribution spectrum of atherosclerotic plaques was described. Kruskal-Wallis test for multiple comparison tests was performed to analyze the differences in groups of different risk factors. The selected independent predictors were put into a multivariate logistic model, and the variables were further screened by stepwise regression to establish a screening model. Finally, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the selected model's discriminant effect. RESULTS The distributions of TPS and SSS scores were both right-skewed. Among males, both TPS and SSS scores were higher than in females (χ2=46.7659, P<0.0001, χ2=51.6603, P<0.0001). Both TPS and SSS scores increased with age (χ2=123.4456, P<0.0001, χ2=123.4456, P<0.0001). For TPS, the most common position was proximal left anterior descending artery (P-LAD, 51.39%). In SSS, the P-LAD plaque was highest: 0: 48.61%, 1: 10.32%, 2: 9.15%, and 3: 31.92%. The TPS score >5, SSS score >5, and CAD >0 were valuable indicators for SBP, FPG, TG, HDL, and GHB. In the model, TPS score >5, SSS score >5, and CADS >0, the area under ROC curve (AUC) was 0.753 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.713 to 0.789], 0.728 (95% CI: 0.687 to 0.766), and 0.756 (95% CI: 0.717 to 0.793), respectively. CONCLUSIONS The most common site of lesions was P-LAD. These models can be used as non-invasive and simple initial screening tools without CAG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengxi Han
- Department of Radiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Jinyan Tang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture People’s Hospital, Jishou, China
| | - Ximing Wang
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuwen Su
- Department of Radiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Guijie Li
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Kai Deng
- Department of Radiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
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Xu C, Yi Y, Han Y, Xie H, Lu X, Vembar M, Leiner T, Jin Z, Wang Y. Incremental improvement of diagnostic performance of coronary CT angiography for the assessment of coronary stenosis in the presence of calcium using a dual-layer spectral detector CT: validation by invasive coronary angiography. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2021; 37:2561-2572. [PMID: 34176031 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-021-02205-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
To investigate value of spectral reconstructions for the quantification of coronary stenosis in the presence of calcified or partially calcified plaques using a dual-layer spectral detector CT (SDCT). Seventy-two consecutive patients were retrospectively enrolled. Conventional 120 kVp images, eight virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) (70 to 140 keV), the effective atomic number (Z effective) and iodine no water images were reconstructed. Invasive coronary angiography was used as the reference standard. Parallel and serial testing were used to assess the incremental diagnostic value of Z effective and iodine no water images to the best VMI series. 122 coronary lesions of 72 patients (49 men and 23 women; 63.7 ± 10.2 years) were enrolled in analysis. Reconstruction at 100 keV yielded optimal diagnostic performance, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and diagnostic accuracy to identify stenosis ≥ 50% or ≥ 70% were 84%, 70%, 80%, 76%, 79% and 78%, 98%, 93%, 91%, 92%, respectively. A serial combination (100 keV VMI followed by Z effective images) resulted in an improved specificity (from 70 to 80%) with a moderate loss of sensitivity (81% from 84%) in identifying ≥ 50% stenosis (P = 0.021). For patients with high Agatston score, this combination could further reduce false positive cases and improve diagnostic accuracy. 100 keV VMI provide optimal diagnostic performance for the detection of coronary stenosis in the presence of calcified or partially calcified plaques using a dual-layer SDCT, with further improvements obtained with the combined use of Z effective images.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Xu
- Department of Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College , No.1, Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yan Yi
- Department of Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College , No.1, Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yechen Han
- Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hongzhi Xie
- Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaomei Lu
- Clinical Science, Philips Healthcare, Beijing, China
| | - Mani Vembar
- CT Clinical Science, Philips Healthcare, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Tim Leiner
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Center of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Zhengyu Jin
- Department of Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College , No.1, Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yining Wang
- Department of Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College , No.1, Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Chen X, Dang Y, Hu H, Ma S, Ma Y, Wang K, Liu T, Lu X, Hou Y. Pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation assessed by dual-layer spectral detector computed tomography is a sensitive imaging marker of high-risk plaques. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2021; 11:2093-2103. [PMID: 33936990 DOI: 10.21037/qims-20-860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background The pericoronary fat attenuation index (FAI) derived from conventional polychromatic computed tomography (CT) can capture the presence of coronary inflammation. However, conventional polychromatic CT has limitations in material component differentiation, and spectral CT could have a better ability to discriminate tissue characteristics. Hence, this study sought to assess pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT) attenuation using spectral CT and explore its association with atherosclerotic plaque characteristics. Methods We enrolled 104 patients with coronary atherosclerosis who met the inclusion criteria and underwent coronary CT angiography with dual-layer spectral detector computed tomography (SDCT). Plaque anatomical characteristics were measured, and the PCAT attenuation was assessed by polychromatic images (CTpoly), virtual mono-energetic images at 40 keV (CT40 keV), the slope of spectral attenuation curve (λHU), and the effective atomic number (Zeff). The association of PCAT attenuation indicators with the presence of high-risk plaques was analyzed, along with the indicators' ability to identify high-risk plaques. Results PCAT attenuation indicators around high-risk plaques were higher than those around non-high-risk plaques, especially CT40 keV [-153.76±24.97 (non-high-risk plaque) vs. -119.87±22.74 (high-risk plaque), P<0.001]. CT40 keV was a predictive factor of high-risk plaques, and high CT40 keV (≥-120.60 HU) could assist in the identification of high-risk plaques, with an area under the curve of 0.883 (95% CI: 0.83-0.94, P<0.05). Conclusions PCAT surrounding high-risk plaques showed higher attenuation; a finding that has been associated with coronary artery inflammation. The metrics derived from SDCT, especially CT40 keV, showed higher discriminatory power for detecting changes in PCAT attenuation than polychromatic CT. PCAT attenuation assessed by CT40 keV may provide a novel imaging marker of plaque vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xujiao Chen
- Radiology Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuxue Dang
- Radiology Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hong Hu
- Radiology Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shaowei Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Radiology Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Kunhua Wang
- Radiology Department, People's Hospital of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Ting Liu
- Radiology Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaomei Lu
- CT Clinical Science, Philips Healthcare, Shenyang, China
| | - Yang Hou
- Radiology Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Ren H, Zhen Y, Gong Z, Wang C, Chang Z, Zheng J. Feasibility of low-dose contrast media in run-off CT angiography on dual-layer spectral detector CT. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2021; 11:1796-1804. [PMID: 33936965 DOI: 10.21037/qims-20-925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background The aim of the present study was to assess the feasibility of applying low-dose contrast media (CM), and to explore the optimal virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) in run-off computed tomography (CT) angiography (CTA) on dual-layer spectral detector CT (SDCT). Methods Forty patients were randomly assigned into a control group using routine volume CM (group A) and an experimental group using half-volume CM (group B). In groups A and B, 120 kVp polychromatic conventional images were generated via hybrid iterative reconstruction algorithm defined as A1 and B1, respectively. Additionally, in group B, VMIs (range, 40-120 keV) were reconstructed via a spectral reconstruction algorithm defined as B2-B10. Vascular attenuation, noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and radiation dose were evaluated. Subjective evaluation was performed using a 5-point scale. Results The patient demographics and radiation dose demonstrated no significant difference between groups A and B [dose length product (DLP): 1,823.45±512.68 vs. 2,014.40±453.25 mGy·cm, P=0.229; volume CT dose index: 14.92±3.40 vs. 16.26±2.85 mGy, P=0.208; the effective dose (ED): 10.82±3.02 vs. 11.88±2.67 mSv, P=0.229]. The mean vascular attenuation was higher in group B2 (40 keV) and was lower in group B3 (50 keV) in comparison with that in group A1 (487.07±154.21 vs. 414.35±71.66 HU, 329.90±100.25 vs. 414.35±71.66 HU, P>0.05). Compared with group A1, the mean noise was similar in group B2 (40 keV) and was lower in group B1 and groups B3-B10 (50-120 keV) (14.81±5.67 vs. 17.29±4.70 HU, P>0.05; 6.75±1.23-11.26±3.24 vs. 17.29±4.70 HU, P<0.05). The mean SNR and CNR in group B2 (40 keV), as well as the mean SNR in group B3 (50 keV), were significantly higher than those of group A1 (38.21±7.52 vs. 28.25±7.20, 32.70±7.79 vs. 24.54±6.60, 32.85±7.10 vs. 28.25±7.20, P<0.05), and the mean CNR in group B3 (50 keV) was similar to that in group A1 (26.66±7.32 vs. 24.54±6.60, P>0.05). Scores of subjective image quality (IQ) in group B2 (40 keV) and B3 (50 keV) were similar to those in group A1 {5 [4.25, 5] vs. 5 [4, 5], 5 [5, 5] vs. 5 [4, 5], P>0.05}, and showed a declining trend in group B4 (60 keV) {4 [4, 5] vs. 5 [4, 5], P>0.05}. Conclusions It is feasible to perform run-off CTA using low-dose CM with VMI on SDCT. The VMIs at 40-50 keV were the optimal choice and did not compromise IQ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Ren
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yanhua Zhen
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zheng Gong
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Chuanzhuo Wang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhihui Chang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jiahe Zheng
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Pan YK, Sun MH, Wang JJ, Chen XB, Kan XJ, Ge YH, Guo ZP. Effect of different reconstruction algorithms on coronary artery calcium scores using the reduced radiation dose protocol: a clinical and phantom study. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2021; 11:1504-1517. [PMID: 33816187 DOI: 10.21037/qims-20-437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithms on coronary artery calcium (CAC) score quantification using the reduced radiation dose (RRD) protocol in an anthropomorphic phantom and in patients. Methods A thorax phantom, containing 9 calcification inserts with varying hydroxyapatite (HA) densities, was scanned with the reference protocol [120 kv, 80 mAs, filtered back projection (FBP)] and RRD protocol (120 kV, 20-80 mAs, 5 mAs interval) using a 256-slice computed tomography (CT) scanner. Raw data were reconstructed with different reconstruction algorithms [iDose4 levels 1-7 and iterative model reconstruction (IMR) levels 1-3]. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and Agatston score (AS) were calculated for each image series. The correction factor was derived from linear regression analysis between the reference image series and other image series with different parameters. Additionally, 40 patients were scanned with the RRD protocol (50 mAs) and reconstructed with FBP, iDose4 level 4, and IMR level 2. AS was calculated for the 3-group image series, and was corrected by applying a correction factor for the IMR group. The agreement of risk stratification with different reconstruction algorithms was also analyzed. Results For the phantom study, the iDose4 and IMR groups had significantly higher SNR and CNR than the FBP group (all P<0.05). There were no significant differences in the total AS after comparing image series reconstructed with iDose4 (level 1-7) and FBP (all P>0.05), while AS from the IMR (level 1-3) image series were lower than the FBP group (all P<0.05). The tube current of 50 mAs was determined for the clinical study, and the correction factor was 1.14. For the clinical study, the median AS from the iDose4 and IMR groups were both significantly lower compared to the FBP image series [(112.89 (63.01, 314.09), 113.22 (64.78, 364.95) vs. 118.59 (65.05, 374.48), both P<0.05]. After applying the correction factor, the adjusted AS from the IMR group was not significantly different from that of the FBP group [126.48 (69.62, 355.85) vs. 118.59 (65.05, 374.48), P=0.145]. Moreover, the agreement in risk stratification between FBP and IMR improved from 0.81 to 0.85. Conclusions The RRD CAC scoring scan using the IMR reconstruction algorithm is clinically feasible, and a correction factor can help reduce the AS underestimation effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Kun Pan
- Department of Radiology, Central China Fuwai Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ming-Hua Sun
- Department of Radiology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Department of Radiology of Central China Fuwai Hospital, Central China Fuwai Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jia-Jia Wang
- Department of Radiology, Central China Fuwai Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | | | - Xiao-Jing Kan
- Department of Radiology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Department of Radiology of Central China Fuwai Hospital, Central China Fuwai Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ying-Hui Ge
- Department of Radiology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Department of Radiology of Central China Fuwai Hospital, Central China Fuwai Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Reduced-iodine-dose dual-energy coronary CT angiography: qualitative and quantitative comparison between virtual monochromatic and polychromatic CT images. Eur Radiol 2021; 31:7132-7142. [PMID: 33740093 PMCID: PMC8379124 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-021-07809-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To quantitatively evaluate the impact of virtual monochromatic images (VMI) on reduced-iodine-dose dual-energy coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in terms of coronary lumen segmentation in vitro, and secondly to assess the image quality in vivo, compared with conventional CT obtained with regular iodine dose. Materials and methods A phantom simulating regular and reduced iodine injection was used to determine the accuracy and precision of lumen area segmentation for various VMI energy levels. We retrospectively included 203 patients from December 2017 to August 2018 (mean age, 51.7 ± 16.8 years) who underwent CCTA using either standard (group A, n = 103) or reduced (group B, n = 100) iodine doses. Conventional images (group A) were qualitatively and quantitatively compared with 55-keV VMI (group B). We recorded the location of venous catheters. Results In vitro, VMI outperformed conventional CT, with a segmentation accuracy of 0.998 vs. 1.684 mm2, respectively (p < 0.001), and a precision of 0.982 vs. 1.229 mm2, respectively (p < 0.001), in simulated overweight adult subjects. In vivo, the rate of diagnostic CCTA in groups A and B was 88.4% (n = 91/103) vs. 89% (n = 89/100), respectively, and noninferiority of protocol B was inferred. Contrast-to-noise ratios (CNR) of lumen versus fat and muscle were higher in group B (p < 0.001) and comparable for lumen versus calcium (p = 0.423). Venous catheters were more often placed on the forearm or hand in group B (p < 0.001). Conclusion In vitro, low-keV VMI improve vessel area segmentation. In vivo, low-keV VMI allows for a 40% iodine dose and injection rate reduction while maintaining diagnostic image quality and improves the CNR between lumen versus fat and muscle. Key Points • Dual-energy coronary CT angiography is becoming increasingly available and might help improve patient management. • Compared with regular-iodine-dose coronary CT angiography, reduced-iodine-dose dual-energy CT with low-keV monochromatic image reconstructions performed better in phantom-based vessel cross-sectional segmentation and proved to be noninferior in vivo. • Patients receiving reduced-iodine-dose dual-energy coronary CT angiography often had the venous catheter placed on the forearm or wrist without compromising image quality. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00330-021-07809-w.
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