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de Jong CMM, Kroft LJM, van Mens TE, Huisman MV, Stöger JL, Klok FA. Modern imaging of acute pulmonary embolism. Thromb Res 2024; 238:105-116. [PMID: 38703584 DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2024.04.016] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
The first-choice imaging test for visualization of thromboemboli in the pulmonary vasculature in patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is multidetector computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) - a readily available and widely used imaging technique. Through technological advancements over the past years, alternative imaging techniques for the diagnosis of PE have become available, whilst others are still under investigation. In particular, the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to enable further innovation in diagnostic management of PE. In this narrative review, current CTPA techniques and the emerging technology photon-counting CT (PCCT), as well as other modern imaging techniques of acute PE are discussed, including CTPA with iodine maps based on subtraction or dual-energy acquisition, single-photon emission CT (SPECT), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and magnetic resonance direct thrombus imaging (MRDTI). Furthermore, potential applications of AI are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M M de Jong
- Department of Medicine - Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - L J M Kroft
- Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - T E van Mens
- Department of Medicine - Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - M V Huisman
- Department of Medicine - Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - J L Stöger
- Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - F A Klok
- Department of Medicine - Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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Schönfeld T, Seitz P, Krieghoff C, Ponorac S, Wötzel A, Olthoff S, Schaudt S, Steglich J, Gutberlet M, Gohmann RF. High-pitch CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) with ultra-low contrast medium volume for the detection of pulmonary embolism: a comparison with standard CTPA. Eur Radiol 2024; 34:1921-1931. [PMID: 37656178 PMCID: PMC10873234 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-023-10101-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the feasibility and image quality of high-pitch CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) with reduced iodine volume in normal weight patients. METHODS In total, 81 normal weight patients undergoing CTPA for suspected pulmonary arterial embolism were retrospectively included: 41 in high-pitch mode with 20 mL of contrast medium (CM); and 40 with normal pitch and 50 mL of CM. Subjective image quality was assessed and rated on a 3-point scale. For objective image quality, attenuation and noise values were measured in all pulmonary arteries from the trunk to segmental level. Contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) was calculated. Radiation dose estimations were recorded. RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences in patient and scan demographics between high-pitch and standard CTPA. Subjective image quality was rated good to excellent in over 90% of all exams with no significant group differences (p = 0.32). Median contrast opacification was lower in high-pitch CTPA (283.18 [216.06-368.67] HU, 386.81 [320.57-526.12] HU; p = 0.0001). CNR reached a minimum of eight in all segmented arteries, but was lower in high-pitch CTPA (8.79 [5.82-12.42], 11.01 [9.19-17.90]; p = 0.005). Median effective dose of high-pitch CTPA was lower (1.04 [0.72-1.27] mSv/mGy·cm; 1.49 [1.07-2.05] mSv/mGy·cm; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION High-pitch CTPA using ultra-low contrast volume (20 mL) rendered diagnostic images for the detection of pulmonary arterial embolism in most instances. Compared to standard CTPA, the high-pitch CTPA exams with drastically reduced contrast medium volume had also concomitantly reduced radiation exposure. However, objective image quality of high-pitch CTPA was worse, though likely still within acceptable limits for confident diagnosis. CLINICAL RELEVANCE This study provides valuable insights on the performance of a high-pitch dual-source CTPA protocol, offering potential benefits in reducing contrast medium and radiation dose while maintaining sufficient image quality for accurate diagnosis in patients suspected of pulmonary embolism. KEY POINTS • High-pitch CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) with ultra-low volume of contrast medium and reduced radiation dose renders diagnostic examinations with comparable subjective image quality to standard CTPA in most patients. • Objective image quality of high-pitch CTPA is reduced compared to standard CTPA, but contrast opacification and contrast-to-noise ratio remain above diagnostic thresholds. • Challenges of high-pitch CTPA may potentially be encountered in patients with severe heart failure or when performing a Valsalva maneuver during the examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Schönfeld
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Heart Center Leipzig, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of General and Geriatric Medicine, St. Elisabeth-Hospital Leipzig, Biedermannstr. 84, 04277, Leipzig, Germany
- Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Liebigstr. 27, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Patrick Seitz
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Heart Center Leipzig, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christian Krieghoff
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Heart Center Leipzig, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Slavica Ponorac
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Heart Center Leipzig, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Radiology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška Cesta 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alexander Wötzel
- Emergency Department, Helios Park-Clinic Leipzig, Strümpellstr. 41, 04289, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stefan Olthoff
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Heart Center Leipzig, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sebastian Schaudt
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Heart Center Leipzig, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Germany
- Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Liebigstr. 27, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jonas Steglich
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Heart Center Leipzig, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Matthias Gutberlet
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Heart Center Leipzig, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Germany
- Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Liebigstr. 27, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
- Leipzig Heart Institute, Russenstr. 69a, 04289, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Robin F Gohmann
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Heart Center Leipzig, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Germany.
- Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Liebigstr. 27, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
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Du B, Zhang W, Shao X, An J, Ma H, Zhao X, Xu L, An D, Tian Y, Dong Y, Niu H. "Triple-low" radiation dose bronchial artery CT angiography before bronchial artery embolisation: a feasibility study. Clin Radiol 2023; 78:e1017-e1022. [PMID: 37813755 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2023.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM To explore the feasibility of a "triple-low" dose (low tube voltage, low tube current, and low contrast agent volume) bronchial artery computed tomography (CT) angiography (CTA) to replace routine dose bronchial artery CTA before bronchial artery embolisation (BAE). MATERIALS AND METHODS CTA was obtained from 60 patients with body mass index (BMI) < 30 kg/m2 using a 256 multi-section iCT system, and they were divided into two groups: (1) group A: 100 kVp, 100 mAs, 50 ml contrast medium (CM); (2) group B: 120 kVp, automatic tube current modulation (ACTM), 80 ml CM. CT attenuation of the thoracic aorta, image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were calculated, and subjective image quality scores and traceability scores assessed. The effective radiation dose was calculated. RESULTS The radiation dose was reduced by 79.7% in group A compared to group B (p<0.05). The CT attenuation of the thoracic aorta was increased by approximately 13% in group A compared to group B (p<0.05). Higher image noise, lower SNR, and CNR were obtained in group A compared to group B (all p<0.05). Both subjective image quality scores and traceability scores did not differ between groups A and B (both p>0.05). CONCLUSION It is feasible to use the "triple-low" dose CTA protocol for patients with a body mass index (BMI) < 30 kg/m2. The radiation dose was reduced by 79.7%, and the dose of contrast medium was reduced by 37.5% to ensure the diagnostic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Du
- Department of Radiology, Hebei Medical University, No. 361 Zhongshan East Road, Shijiazhuang, 050011, Hebei, China
| | - W Zhang
- Chengde Medical University, Anyuan Road, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
| | - X Shao
- Department of Radiology, Hebei Medical University, No. 361 Zhongshan East Road, Shijiazhuang, 050011, Hebei, China
| | - J An
- Department of Interventional Treatment, First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066099, Hebei, China
| | - H Ma
- Chengde Medical University, Anyuan Road, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
| | - X Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Hebei Medical University, No. 361 Zhongshan East Road, Shijiazhuang, 050011, Hebei, China
| | - L Xu
- Department of Radiology, Hebei Medical University, No. 361 Zhongshan East Road, Shijiazhuang, 050011, Hebei, China
| | - D An
- Department of Interventional Treatment, First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066099, Hebei, China
| | - Y Tian
- Department of Interventional Treatment, First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066099, Hebei, China
| | - Y Dong
- Department of Interventional Treatment, First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066099, Hebei, China
| | - H Niu
- Department of Interventional Treatment, First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066099, Hebei, China.
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Pannenbecker P, Huflage H, Grunz JP, Gruschwitz P, Patzer TS, Weng AM, Heidenreich JF, Bley TA, Petritsch B. Photon-counting CT for diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism: potential for contrast medium and radiation dose reduction. Eur Radiol 2023; 33:7830-7839. [PMID: 37311805 PMCID: PMC10598187 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-023-09777-9] [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] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the image quality of an ultra-low contrast medium and radiation dose CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) protocol for the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism using a clinical photon-counting detector (PCD) CT system and compare its performance to a dual-energy-(DE)-CTPA protocol on a conventional energy-integrating detector (EID) CT system. METHODS Sixty-four patients either underwent CTPA with the novel scan protocol on the PCD-CT scanner (32 patients, 25 mL, CTDIvol 2.5 mGy·cm) or conventional DE-CTPA on a third-generation dual-source EID-CT (32 patients, 50 mL, CTDIvol 5.1 mGy·cm). Pulmonary artery CT attenuation, signal-to-noise ratio, and contrast-to-noise-ratio were assessed as objective criteria of image quality, while subjective ratings of four radiologists were compared at 60 keV using virtual monoenergetic imaging and polychromatic standard reconstructions. Interrater reliability was determined by means of the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Effective dose was compared between patient cohorts. RESULTS Subjective image quality was deemed superior by all four reviewers for 60-keV PCD scans (excellent or good ratings in 93.8% of PCD vs. 84.4% of 60 keV EID scans, ICC = 0.72). No examinations on either system were considered "non-diagnostic." Objective image quality parameters were significantly higher in the EID group (mostly p < 0.001), both in the polychromatic reconstructions and at 60 keV. The ED (1.4 vs. 3.3 mSv) was significantly lower in the PCD cohort (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS PCD-CTPA allows for considerable reduction of contrast medium and radiation dose in the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism, while maintaining good to excellent image quality compared to conventional EID-CTPA. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT Clinical PCD-CT allows for spectral assessment of pulmonary vasculature with high scan speed, which is beneficial in patients with suspected pulmonary embolism, frequently presenting with dyspnea. Simultaneously PCD-CT enables substantial reduction of contrast medium and radiation dose. KEY POINTS • The clinical photon-counting detector CT scanner used in this study allows for high-pitch multi-energy acquisitions. • Photon-counting computed tomography allows for considerable reduction of contrast medium and radiation dose in the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism. • Subjective image quality was rated best for 60-keV photon-counting scans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Pannenbecker
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacherstr. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Henner Huflage
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacherstr. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jan-Peter Grunz
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacherstr. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Gruschwitz
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacherstr. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Theresa S Patzer
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacherstr. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andreas M Weng
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacherstr. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Julius F Heidenreich
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacherstr. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thorsten A Bley
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacherstr. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Petritsch
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacherstr. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
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Bai J, Zhang W, Zhang W, Zhang B. APPLICATION OF CT PULMONARY ANGIOGRAPHY WITH "ULTRA-DOUBLE-LOW" AND ITERATIVE MODEL RECONSTRUCTION FOR ACUTE PULMONARY EMBOLISM. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2023; 199:ncac279-215. [PMID: 36578222 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncac279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The study is to investigate the feasibility of computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) with iterative model reconstruction (IMR) and "Ultra-double-low" (Ultra-low dose, Ultra-low contrast agent volume). Thirty-six patients who tested positive for pulmonary embolism in CTPA were enrolled in the study. Another CTPA was performed 1 week after thrombolytic therapy. The first examination was routine CTPA (Routine Group) with the parameters as follows: automatic mA scanning, 120 kV and image reconstruction by using iDose4 iterative reconstruction (Lever 4), iodine concentration and dose of contrast agent: 300 mgI/ml and 0.5 gI/kg, respectively. The latter one was ultra-low dose CTPA examination (Ultra-low Group): 40 mAs, 80 kV and IMR (Lever 3), contrast agent: 300 mgI/ml and 15 mL, respectively. Effective dose (ED), CT dose index volume (CTDIvol), dose length product (DLP), attenuation of pulmonary artery, contrast noise ratio (CNR) and signal noise ratio (SNR) were recorded and calculated. The imaging qualities were subjectively assessed. The Eds/CTDIvols/DLPs of Ultra-low Group are lower than the Routine Group (P < 0.05). The differences in attenuation between the two groups are not significant (P > 0.05). The differences in CNR and SNR between the two groups are significant (P < 0.05). The differences in imaging qualities between the two groups when subjectively assessed are not significant (P > 0.05). The 256-slice spiral CT combined with IMR and "Ultra-double-low" is feasible for the acute pulmonary embolism examination and the radiation dose and the volume of contrast agent can be greatly reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayuan Bai
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 1055, Sanxiang Road, Suzhou 215004, P.R. China
| | - Wanjun Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 1055, Sanxiang Road, Suzhou 215004, P.R. China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 1055, Sanxiang Road, Suzhou 215004, P.R. China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 1055, Sanxiang Road, Suzhou 215004, P.R. China
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Gadolinium Enhances Dual-energy Computed Tomography Scan of Pulmonary Artery. Curr Med Sci 2022; 42:1310-1318. [PMID: 36190598 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-022-2621-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the feasibility of using gadopentetate dimeglumine (Gd-DTPA) for dual-energy computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA). METHODS Sixty-six patients were randomly divided into three groups and underwent CTPA. Group A had a turbo flash scan using an iohexol injection, Group B had a turbo flash scan using Gd-DTPA, and Group C had a dual-energy scan using Gd-DTPA. The original images of Group C were linearly blended with a blending factor of 0.5 or reconstructed at 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and 110 keV, respectively. The groups were compared in terms of pulmonary artery CT value, image quality, and radiation dose. RESULTS The pulmonary artery CT values were significantly higher in Group C40keV than in Groups B and C, but lower than in Group A. There was no significant difference in the image noise of Groups C40keV, B, and C. Moreover, Group A had the largest beam hardening artifacts of the superior vena cava (SVC), followed by Groups B and C. Group C40keV showed better vascular branching than the other three groups, among which Group B was superior to Group A. The subjective score of the image quality of Groups A, B, and C showed no significant difference, but the score was significantly higher in Group C40keV than in Groups A and B. The radiation dose was significantly lower in Group B than in Groups A and C. CONCLUSION Gd-CTPA is recommended to patients who are unsuitable for receiving an iodine-based CTPA. Furthermore, a turbo flash scan could surpass a dual-energy scan without consideration for virtual monoenergetic imaging.
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Kaproth-Joslin K, Hobbs S, Rajiah P, Chaturvedi A, Chaturvedi A. Optimizing low contrast volume thoracic CT angiography: From the basics to the advanced. J Clin Imaging Sci 2022; 12:41. [PMID: 36128360 PMCID: PMC9479554 DOI: 10.25259/jcis_51_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced CT angiography (CTA) is a widely used, noninvasive imaging technique for evaluating cardiovascular structures. Contrast-induced nephrotoxicity is a concern in renal disease; however, the true nephrotoxic potential of iodinated contrast media (CM) is unknown. If a renal impaired patient requires CTA, it is important to protect the kidneys from further harm by reducing total iodinated CM volume while still obtaining diagnostic quality imaging. These same reduced volume CM techniques can also be applied to nonrenal impaired patients in times of CM shortage. This educational review discusses several modifications to CTA that can be adapted to both conventional 64-slice and the newer generation CT scanners which enable subsecond acquisition with a reduced CM volume technique. Such modifications include hardware and software adjustments and changes to both the volume and flow rate of administered CM, with the goal to reduce the dose of CM without compromising diagnostic yield.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Susan Hobbs
- Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Prabhakar Rajiah
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Apeksha Chaturvedi
- Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Abhishek Chaturvedi
- Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States
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Ananthakrishnan L, Kay FU, Zeikus EA, Chu ES, Chang J, Barr JD, Rofsky NM, Abbara S. What the Baby Formula and Medical Contrast Material Shortages Have in Common: Insights and Recommendations for Managing the Iodinated Contrast Media Shortage. Radiol Cardiothorac Imaging 2022; 4:e220101. [PMID: 35833167 PMCID: PMC9274312 DOI: 10.1148/ryct.220101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The impact of supply chain and supply chain logistics, including personnel directly and indirectly related to the movement of supplies, has come to light in a variety of industries since the global COVID-19 pandemic. Acutely, the experience with baby formula and iodinated contrast material exposes key vulnerabilities to supply chains. The rather sudden diminished availability of iodinated contrast material has forced health care systems to engage in more judicious use of product through catalyzing the adoption of behaviors that had been recommended and deemed reasonable prior to the shortage. The authors describe efforts at a large, academic safety net county health system to conserve iodinated contrast media by optimizing contrast media use in the CT department and changing ordering patterns of referring providers. Special attention is given to opportunities to conserve contrast material in cardiothoracic imaging, including low kV and dual-energy CT techniques. A values-based leadership philosophy and collaboration with key stakeholders facilitate effective response to the critical shortage and rapid deployment of iodinated contrast media conservation strategies. Last, while the single-supplier model is efficient and cost-effective, its application to critically necessary services such as health care must be questioned considering disruptions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Keywords: CT, Intravenous Contrast Agents, CT-Spectral Imaging (Dual Energy) ©RSNA, 2022.
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Practice Management Strategies for Imaging Facilities Facing an Acute Iodinated Contrast Media Shortage. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2022; 219:666-670. [PMID: 35549445 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.22.27969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
An unanticipated but severe shortage in iodinated contrast media (ICM) is currently affecting imaging practices across the globe and is expected to persist through at least the end of June 2022. This supply shock may lead to healthcare systems experiencing an acute imaging crisis, as many affected facilities have contrast agent supplies that are anticipated to last only a week or two under normal operating conditions. To maximize the opportunity to continue to provide optimal care for patients with emergent or life-threatening imaging indications and thereby minimize the overall impact on patient care, practice leaders will need to quickly assess their contrast material inventories, prioritize examination indications, and reduce their expected short-term usage of ICM. This Clinical Perspective reviews ICM conservation techniques that we have deployed, or are considering deploying, depending on the severity and length of the supply shortage.
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Guo X, Jia D, He L, Jia X, Zhang D, Dou Y, Shen S, Ji H, Zhang S, Chen Y. Evaluation of ultralow-dose computed tomography on detection of pulmonary nodules in overweight or obese adult patients. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2022; 23:e13589. [PMID: 35293673 PMCID: PMC8992951 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.13589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the accuracy of pulmonary nodule (PN) detection in overweight or obese adult patients using ultralow‐dose computed tomography (ULDCT) with tin filtration at 100 kV and advanced model‐based iterative reconstruction (ADMIRE). Methods Eighty‐one patients with body mass indices of ≥25 kg/m2 were enrolled. All patients underwent low‐dose chest CT (LDCT), followed by ULDCT. Two radiologists experienced in LDCT established the standard of reference (SOR) for PNs. The number, type, size, and location of PNs were identified in the SOR. Effective dose, objective image quality (IQ), and subjective IQ based on two radiologists’ scores were compared between ULDCT and LDCT. The detection performances of radiologists based on ULDCT were calculated according to the nodule analyses. Logistic regression was used to test for independent predictors of PN detection sensitivity. Results Both the effective dose and objective IQ were lower for ULDCT than for LDCT (both p < 0.001). Both radiologists rated the subjective IQ of the overall IQ on ULDCT to be diagnostically sufficient. In total, 234 nodules (mean diameter, 3.4 ± 1.9 mm) were classified into 32 subsolid, 149 solid, and 53 calcified nodules according to the SOR. The overall sensitivity of ULDCT for nodule detection was 93.6%. Based on multivariate analyses, the nodule types (p = 0.015) and sizes (p = 0.013) were independent predictors of nodule detection. Conclusions Compared with LDCT, ULDCT with tin filtration at 100 kV and ADMIRE could significantly reduce the radiation dose in overweight or obese patients while maintaining good sensitivity for nodule detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowan Guo
- Department of Radiology, Hebei General Hospital, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Dezhao Jia
- Department of Radiology, Hebei General Hospital, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Lei He
- Department of Radiology, Hebei General Hospital, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xudong Jia
- Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Danqing Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Hebei General Hospital, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yana Dou
- Siemens Healthcare Ltd., Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Shanshan Shen
- Department of Radiology, Hebei General Hospital, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Hong Ji
- Department of Radiology, Hebei General Hospital, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Shuqian Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Hebei General Hospital, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yingmin Chen
- Department of Radiology, Hebei General Hospital, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
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Wang LJ, Wong YC, Hwang YS, Pang ST, Chuang CK, Chang YH. Split-bolus computed tomography urography (CTU) achieves more than half of radiation dose reduction in females and overweight patients than conventional single-bolus computed tomography urography. Transl Oncol 2021; 14:101151. [PMID: 34111709 PMCID: PMC8193142 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101151] [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: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare radiation dose between single-bolus and split-bolus computed tomography urography (CTU). MATERIALS AND METHODS We prospectively enrolled patients undergoing single-bolus and split-bolus CTU from 2019 June to 2020 June. The age, sex and body mass index (BMI) of each patient was recorded and categorized into BMI classes. The radiation dose indices including volumetric computed dose index, size-specific dose estimate, dose length product and effective dose of each patient were compared between 2 CTU groups with calculation of dose reduction proportions (DRPs). RESULTS Seventy-six patients underwent single-bolus (n = 39) and split-bolus (n = 37) CTU. Single-bolus CTU had higher radiation doses than split-bolus CTU and there were statistically significant differences of all radiation dose indices between two CTU groups without and with stratification by sex and BMI classes. The DRPs of volumetric computed dose index, size-specific dose estimate, dose length product and effective dose using split-bolus CTU were 49%, 49%. 50%, and 45%, respectively. Multiple linear regression with an effect size (f2) as 2.24 showed females (p = 0.027) and higher BMI classes (p = 2.38 *10-9) were associated with higher effective doses; and split-bolus CTU, lower effective doses (p = 5.40 *10-15). Using split-bolus CTU, females had consistently higher DRP of all radiation dose indices than males (54-55% versus 40-42%). Overweight patients had the largest DRP as 55% of effective dose. CONCLUSIONS Split-bolus CTU could be preferred by its significant radiation dose reduction effect in regard to single-bolus CTU, which was most profound in females and overweight patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jen Wang
- Department of Medical Imaging and Intervention, New Taipei Municipal Tucheng Hospital, Chang Gung Medical foundation, New Taipei City, Tucheng District, No. 6, Section 2, Jincheng Road, Taiwan; Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - Yon-Cheong Wong
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Medical Imaging and Intervention, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Shuan Hwang
- Department of Medical Imaging and Intervention, New Taipei Municipal Tucheng Hospital, Chang Gung Medical foundation, New Taipei City, Tucheng District, No. 6, Section 2, Jincheng Road, Taiwan; Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - See-Tong Pang
- Department of Urology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Keng Chuang
- Department of Urology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Hsu Chang
- Department of Urology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Urology, New Taipei Municipal Tucheng Hospital, Chang Gung Medical foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan
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12
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Nagpal P, Priya S, Eskandari A, Mullan A, Aggarwal T, Narayanasamy S, Parashar K, Bhat AP, Sieren JC. Factors Affecting Radiation Dose in Computed Tomography Angiograms for Pulmonary Embolism: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Clin Imaging Sci 2020; 10:74. [PMID: 33274118 PMCID: PMC7708960 DOI: 10.25259/jcis_168_2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Computed tomography pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) is one of the most commonly ordered and frequently overused tests. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mean radiation dose to patients getting CTPA and to identify factors that are associated with higher dose. Material and Methods This institutionally approved retrospective study included all patients who had a CTPA to rule out acute pulmonary embolism between 2016 and 2018 in a tertiary care center. Patient data (age, sex, body mass index [BMI], and patient location), CT scanner type, image reconstruction methodology, and radiation dose parameters (dose-length product [DLP]) were recorded. Effective dose estimates were obtained by multiplying DLP by conversion coefficient (0.014 mSv•mGy-1•cm-1). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors affecting the radiation dose. Results There were 2342 patients (1099 men and 1243 women) with a mean age of 58.1 years (range 0.2-104.4 years) and BMI of 31.3 kg/m2 (range 12-91.5 kg/m2). The mean effective radiation dose was 5.512 mSv (median - 4.27 mSv; range 0.1-43.0 mSv). Patient factors, including BMI >25 kg/m2, male sex, age >18 years, and intensive care unit (ICU) location, were associated with significantly higher dose (P < 0.05). CT scanning using third generation dual-source scanner with model-based iterative reconstruction (IR) had significantly lower dose (mean: 4.90 mSv) versus single-source (64-slice) scanner with filtered back projection (mean: 9.29 mSv, P < 0.001). Conclusion Patients with high BMI and ICU referrals are associated with high CT radiation dose. They are most likely to benefit by scanning on newer generation scanner using advance model-based IR techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Nagpal
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, United State
| | - Sarv Priya
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, United State
| | - Ali Eskandari
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, United State
| | - Aidan Mullan
- Department of Statistics, University of California, Berkeley, California, United State
| | - Tanya Aggarwal
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, United State
| | - Sabarish Narayanasamy
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, United State
| | - Kamesh Parashar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, United State
| | - Ambarish P Bhat
- Department of Radiology, Interventional Radiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United State
| | - Jessica C Sieren
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, United State.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa and Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United State
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13
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Alobeidi H, Alshamari M, Widell J, Eriksson T, Lidén M. Minimizing contrast media dose in CT pulmonary angiography with high-pitch technique. Br J Radiol 2020; 93:20190995. [PMID: 32436788 PMCID: PMC7336071 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20190995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To perform CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) using a minimal amount of iodinated contrast media. METHODS 47 patients (25 females) with mean age 69 years (range 41-82 years) referred for contrast-enhanced chest CT were prospectively included in this Phase IV clinical drug trial. All participants underwent a study specific CTPA in addition to the chest CT. The participants received 80 mg I/kg body weight Iohexol contrast media using a preparatory saline bolus, a dual flow contrast/saline bolus and a saline flush, and a scanner protocol with 80 kVp dual source high-pitch mode. Three readers independently assessed the image quality on the 3-point scale non-diagnostic, adequate or good-excellent image quality. Additionally, the pulmonary arterial contrast opacification was measured. RESULTS On average, the patients received 16.8 ml Iohexol 350 mg I/mL (range 12-20 ml). Mean patient weight was 71 kg (range 50-85 kg). Identically for all readers, pulmonary embolism (PE) was detected in 1/47 participants. The median number of examinations visually scored concerning pulmonary embolism as good-excellent was 47/47 (range 44-47); adequate 0/47 (0-3) and non-diagnostic 0/47 (range 0-0). The proportion adequate or better examinations was for all readers 47/47, 100% [95% confidence interval 92-100%]. The mean attenuation ± standard deviation in the pulmonary trunk was 325 ± 72 Hounsfield unit (range 165-531 Hounsfield unit). CONCLUSIONS Diagnostic CTPA with 17 ml contrast media is possible in non-obese patients using low kVp, high pitch and carefully designed contrast media administration. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE By combining several procedures in a CTPA protocol, the contrast media dose can be minimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan Alobeidi
- Department of Radiology, Örebro university Hospital, Region Örebro län, S-70185 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Muhammed Alshamari
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, S-70182 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Jonas Widell
- Department of Radiology, Örebro university Hospital, Region Örebro län, S-70185 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Tomas Eriksson
- Department of Radiology, Örebro university Hospital, Region Örebro län, S-70185 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Mats Lidén
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, S-70182 Örebro, Sweden
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Abstract
Computed tomography angiography (CTA) has become a mainstay for the imaging of vascular diseases, because of high accuracy, availability, and rapid turnaround time. High-quality CTA images can now be routinely obtained with high isotropic spatial resolution and temporal resolution. Advances in CTA have focused on improving the image quality, increasing the acquisition speed, eliminating artifacts, and reducing the doses of radiation and iodinated contrast media. Dual-energy computed tomography provides material composition capabilities that can be used for characterizing lesions, optimizing contrast, decreasing artifact, and reducing radiation dose. Deep learning techniques can be used for classification, segmentation, quantification, and image enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prabhakar Rajiah
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55904, USA.
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Stals MAM, Klok FA, Huisman MV. Diagnostic management of acute pulmonary embolism in special populations. Expert Rev Respir Med 2020; 14:729-736. [DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2020.1753505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Milou A. M. Stals
- Department of Medicine, Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frederikus A. Klok
- Department of Medicine, Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Menno V. Huisman
- Department of Medicine, Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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