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Joël Greffier, Dabli D, Faby S, Pastor M, Croisille C, de Oliveira F, Erath J, Beregi JP. Abdominal image quality and dose reduction with energy-integrating or photon-counting detectors dual-source CT: A phantom study. Diagn Interv Imaging 2024:S2211-5684(24)00120-7. [PMID: 38760277 DOI: 10.1016/j.diii.2024.05.002] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to assess image-quality and dose reduction potential using a photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) system by comparison with two different dual-source CT (DSCT) systems using two phantoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Acquisitions on phantoms were performed using two DSCT systems (DSCT1 [Somatom Force] and DSCT2 [Somatom Pro.Pulse]) and one PCCT system (Naeotom Alpha) at four dose levels (13/6/3.4/1.8 mGy). Noise power spectrum (NPS) and task-based transfer function (TTF) were computed to assess noise magnitude and noise texture and spatial resolution (f50), respectively. Detectability indexes (d') were computed to model the detection of abdominal lesions: one unenhanced high-contrast task, one contrast-enhanced high-contrast task and one unenhanced low-contrast task. Image quality was subjectively assessed on an anthropomorphic phantom by two radiologists. RESULTS For all dose levels, noise magnitude values were lower with PCCT than with DSCTs. For all CT systems, similar noise texture values were found at 13 and 6 mGy, but the greatest noise texture values were found for DSCT2 and the lowest for PCCT at 3.4 and 1.8 mGy. For high-contrast inserts, similar or lower f50 values were found with PCCT than with DSCT1 and the opposite pattern was found for the low-contrast insert. For the three simulated lesions, d' values were greater with PCCT than with DSCTs. Abdominal images were rated satisfactory for clinical use by the radiologists for all dose levels with PCCT and for 13 and 6 mGy with DSCTs. CONCLUSION By comparison with DSCTs, PCCT reduces image-noise and improves detectability of simulated abdominal lesions without altering the spatial resolution and image texture. Image-quality obtained with PCCT seem to indicate greater potential for dose optimization than those obtained with DSCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joël Greffier
- IMAGINE UR UM 103, Montpellier University, Department of Medical Imaging, Nîmes University Hospital, 30900 Nîmes, France.
| | - Djamel Dabli
- IMAGINE UR UM 103, Montpellier University, Department of Medical Imaging, Nîmes University Hospital, 30900 Nîmes, France
| | - Sebastian Faby
- Department of Computed Tomography, Siemens Healthineers AG, 91301 Forchheim, Germany
| | - Maxime Pastor
- IMAGINE UR UM 103, Montpellier University, Department of Medical Imaging, Nîmes University Hospital, 30900 Nîmes, France
| | - Cédric Croisille
- Department of Computed Tomography, Siemens Healthineers AG, 91301 Forchheim, Germany
| | - Fabien de Oliveira
- IMAGINE UR UM 103, Montpellier University, Department of Medical Imaging, Nîmes University Hospital, 30900 Nîmes, France
| | - Julien Erath
- Department of Computed Tomography, Siemens Healthineers AG, 91301 Forchheim, Germany
| | - Jean Paul Beregi
- IMAGINE UR UM 103, Montpellier University, Department of Medical Imaging, Nîmes University Hospital, 30900 Nîmes, France
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Zhou W, Huo D, Browne LP, Zhou X, Weinman J. Universal 120-kV Dual-Source Ultra-High Pitch Protocol on the Photon-Counting CT System for Pediatric Abdomen of All Sizes: A Phantom Investigation Comparing With Energy-Integrating CT. Invest Radiol 2024:00004424-990000000-00208. [PMID: 38595181 DOI: 10.1097/rli.0000000000001080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to determine if a universal 120-kV ultra-high pitch and virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) protocol on the photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) system can provide sufficient image quality for pediatric abdominal imaging, regardless of size, compared with protocols using a size-dependent kV and dual-source flash mode on the energy-integrating CT (EICT) system. MATERIALS AND METHODS One solid water insert and 3 iodine (2, 5, 10 mg I/mL) inserts were attached or inserted into phantoms of variable sizes, simulating the abdomens of a newborn, 5-year-old, 10-year-old, and adult-sized pediatric patients. Each phantom setting was scanned on an EICT using clinical size-specific kV dual-source protocols with a pitch of 3.0. The scans were performed with fixed scanning parameters, and the CTDIvol values of full dose were 0.30, 0.71, 1.05, and 7.40 mGy for newborn to adult size, respectively. In addition, half dose scans were acquired on EICT. Each phantom was then scanned on a PCCT (Siemens Alpha) using a universal 120-kV protocol with the same full dose and half dose as determined above on the EICT scanner. All other parameters matched to EICT settings. Virtual monoenergetic images were generated from PCCT scans between 40 and 80 keV with a 5-keV interval. Image quality metrics were compared between PCCT VMIs and EICT, including image noise (measured as standard deviation of solid water), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) (measured at iodine inserts with solid water as background), and noise power spectrum (measured in uniform phantom regions). RESULTS Noise at a PCCT VMI of 70 keV (7.0 ± 0.6 HU for newborn, 14.7 ± 1.6 HU for adult) is comparable (P > 0.05, t test) or significantly lower (P < 0.05, t test) compared with EICT (7.8 ± 0.8 HU for newborn, 15.3 ± 1.5 HU for adult). Iodine CNR from PCCT VMI at 50 keV (50.8 ± 8.4 for newborn, 27.3 ± 2.8 for adult) is comparable (P > 0.05, t test) or significantly higher (P < 0.05, t test) to the corresponding EICT measurements (57.5 ± 6.7 for newborn, 13.8 ± 1.7 for adult). The noise power spectrum curve shape of PCCT VMI is similar to EICT, despite PCCT VMI exhibiting higher noise at low keV levels. CONCLUSIONS The universal PCCT 120 kV with ultra-high pitch and postprocessed VMIs demonstrated equivalent or improved performance in noise (70 keV) and iodine CNR (50 keV) for pediatric abdominal CT, compared with size-specific kV images on the EICT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO (W.Z., D.H., L.P.B., J.W.); Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO (L.P.B., J.W.); and Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN (X.Z.)
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Fletcher JG, Inoue A, Bratt A, Horst KK, Koo CW, Rajiah PS, Baffour FI, Ko JP, Remy-Jardin M, McCollough CH, Yu L. Photon-counting CT in Thoracic Imaging: Early Clinical Evidence and Incorporation Into Clinical Practice. Radiology 2024; 310:e231986. [PMID: 38501953 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.231986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Photon-counting CT (PCCT) is an emerging advanced CT technology that differs from conventional CT in its ability to directly convert incident x-ray photon energies into electrical signals. The detector design also permits substantial improvements in spatial resolution and radiation dose efficiency and allows for concurrent high-pitch and high-temporal-resolution multienergy imaging. This review summarizes (a) key differences in PCCT image acquisition and image reconstruction compared with conventional CT; (b) early evidence for the clinical benefit of PCCT for high-spatial-resolution diagnostic tasks in thoracic imaging, such as assessment of airway and parenchymal diseases, as well as benefits of high-pitch and multienergy scanning; (c) anticipated radiation dose reduction, depending on the diagnostic task, and increased utility for routine low-dose thoracic CT imaging; (d) adaptations for thoracic imaging in children; (e) potential for further quantitation of thoracic diseases; and (f) limitations and trade-offs. Moreover, important points for conducting and interpreting clinical studies examining the benefit of PCCT relative to conventional CT and integration of PCCT systems into multivendor, multispecialty radiology practices are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel G Fletcher
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
| | - Akitoshi Inoue
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
| | - Alex Bratt
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
| | - Kelly K Horst
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
| | - Chi Wan Koo
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
| | - Prabhakar Shantha Rajiah
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
| | - Francis I Baffour
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
| | - Jane P Ko
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
| | - Martine Remy-Jardin
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
| | - Cynthia H McCollough
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
| | - Lifeng Yu
- From the Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905 (J.G.F., A.I., A.B., K.K.H., C.W.K., P.S.R., F.I.B., C.H.M., L.Y.); Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan (A.I.); Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY (J.P.K.); and IMALLIANCE-Haut-de-France, Valenciennes, France (M.R.J.)
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Sachdeva R, Armstrong AK, Arnaout R, Grosse-Wortmann L, Han BK, Mertens L, Moore RA, Olivieri LJ, Parthiban A, Powell AJ. Novel Techniques in Imaging Congenital Heart Disease: JACC Scientific Statement. J Am Coll Cardiol 2024; 83:63-81. [PMID: 38171712 PMCID: PMC10947556 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed exponential growth in cardiac imaging technologies, allowing better visualization of complex cardiac anatomy and improved assessment of physiology. These advances have become increasingly important as more complex surgical and catheter-based procedures are evolving to address the needs of a growing congenital heart disease population. This state-of-the-art review presents advances in echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, cardiac computed tomography, invasive angiography, 3-dimensional modeling, and digital twin technology. The paper also highlights the integration of artificial intelligence with imaging technology. While some techniques are in their infancy and need further refinement, others have found their way into clinical workflow at well-resourced centers. Studies to evaluate the clinical value and cost-effectiveness of these techniques are needed. For techniques that enhance the value of care for congenital heart disease patients, resources will need to be allocated for education and training to promote widespread implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Sachdeva
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
| | - Aimee K Armstrong
- The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Rima Arnaout
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Lars Grosse-Wortmann
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - B Kelly Han
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Luc Mertens
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto and The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ryan A Moore
- The Heart Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Laura J Olivieri
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Anitha Parthiban
- Department of Cardiology, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Andrew J Powell
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Fain SB, McIntosh MJ. A new approach to computed tomography measurement of airway remodelling in paediatric asthma. ERJ Open Res 2024; 10:00763-2023. [PMID: 38226062 PMCID: PMC10789253 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00763-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Internal normalisation to reference structures on quantitative chest CT imaging (e.g. lung airway dimensions to adjacent vascular dimensions) provides a potential way to standardise image measurements to population characteristics https://bit.ly/3Rh9pnW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean B. Fain
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Mese I, Altintas Mese C, Demirsoy U, Anik Y. Innovative advances in pediatric radiology: computed tomography reconstruction techniques, photon-counting detector computed tomography, and beyond. Pediatr Radiol 2024; 54:1-11. [PMID: 38041712 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-023-05823-2] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
In pediatric radiology, balancing diagnostic accuracy with reduced radiation exposure is paramount due to the heightened vulnerability of younger patients to radiation. Technological advancements in computed tomography (CT) reconstruction techniques, especially model-based iterative reconstruction and deep learning image reconstruction, have enabled significant reductions in radiation doses without compromising image quality. Deep learning image reconstruction, powered by deep learning algorithms, has demonstrated superiority over traditional techniques like filtered back projection, providing enhanced image quality, especially in pediatric head and cardiac CT scans. Photon-counting detector CT has emerged as another groundbreaking technology, allowing for high-resolution images while substantially reducing radiation doses, proving highly beneficial for pediatric patients requiring frequent imaging. Furthermore, cloud-based dose tracking software focuses on monitoring radiation exposure, ensuring adherence to safety standards. However, the deployment of these technologies presents challenges, including the need for large datasets, computational demands, and potential data privacy issues. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of these technological advancements, their clinical implications, and the ongoing efforts to enhance pediatric radiology's safety and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismail Mese
- Department of Radiology, Health Sciences University, Erenkoy Mental Health and Neurology Training and Research Hospital, 19 Mayis, Sinan Ercan Cd. No:23, Kadikoy, Istanbul, 34736, Turkey.
| | - Ceren Altintas Mese
- Department of Pediatrics, Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ugur Demirsoy
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Yonca Anik
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
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Hagen F, Soschynski M, Weis M, Hagar MT, Krumm P, Ayx I, Taron J, Krauss T, Hein M, Ruile P, von Zur Muehlen C, Schlett CL, Neubauer J, Tsiflikas I, Russe MF, Arnold P, Faby S, Froelich MF, Weiß J, Stein T, Overhoff D, Bongers M, Nikolaou K, Schönberg SO, Bamberg F, Horger M. Photon-counting computed tomography - clinical application in oncological, cardiovascular, and pediatric radiology. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2024; 196:25-35. [PMID: 37793417 DOI: 10.1055/a-2119-5802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT) is a promising new technology with the potential to fundamentally change workflows in the daily routine and provide new quantitative imaging information to improve clinical decision-making and patient management. METHOD The contents of this review are based on an unrestricted literature search of PubMed and Google Scholar using the search terms "photon-counting CT", "photon-counting detector", "spectral CT", "computed tomography" as well as on the authors' own experience. RESULTS The fundamental difference with respect to the currently established energy-integrating CT detectors is that PCD-CT allows for the counting of every single photon at the detector level. Based on the identified literature, PCD-CT phantom measurements and initial clinical studies have demonstrated that the new technology allows for improved spatial resolution, reduced image noise, and new possibilities for advanced quantitative image postprocessing. CONCLUSION For clinical practice, the potential benefits include fewer beam hardening artifacts, a radiation dose reduction, and the use of new or combinations of contrast agents. In particular, critical patient groups such as oncological, cardiovascular, lung, and head & neck as well as pediatric patient collectives benefit from the clinical advantages. KEY POINTS · Photon-counting computed tomography (PCD-CT) is being used for the first time in routine clinical practice, enabling a significant dose reduction in critical patient populations such as oncology, cardiology, and pediatrics.. · Compared to conventional CT, PCD-CT enables a reduction in electronic image noise.. · Due to the spectral data sets, PCD-CT enables fully comprehensive post-processing applications.. CITATION FORMAT · Hagen F, Soschynski M, Weis M et al. Photon-counting computed tomography - clinical application in oncological, cardiovascular, and pediatric radiology. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2024; 196: 25 - 34.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Hagen
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martin Soschynski
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Meike Weis
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Muhammad Taha Hagar
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Patrick Krumm
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Isabelle Ayx
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jana Taron
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Krauss
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Manuel Hein
- Department of Cardiology & Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg - Bad Krozingen, University Hospital Freiburg, Faculty of medicine, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Ruile
- Department of Cardiology & Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg - Bad Krozingen, University Hospital Freiburg, Faculty of medicine, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Constantin von Zur Muehlen
- Department of Cardiology & Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg - Bad Krozingen, University Hospital Freiburg, Faculty of medicine, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christopher L Schlett
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jakob Neubauer
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ilias Tsiflikas
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Maximilian Frederik Russe
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Arnold
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Faby
- Computed Tomography, Siemens Healthcare GmbH, Forchheim, Germany
| | - Matthias F Froelich
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jakob Weiß
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Stein
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Overhoff
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Malte Bongers
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Konstantin Nikolaou
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stefan O Schönberg
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Fabian Bamberg
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marius Horger
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Horst KK, Yu L, McCollough CH, Esquivel A, Thorne JE, Rajiah PS, Baffour F, Hull NC, Weber NM, Thacker PG, Thomas KB, Binkovitz LA, Guerin JB, Fletcher JG. Potential benefits of photon counting detector computed tomography in pediatric imaging. Br J Radiol 2023; 96:20230189. [PMID: 37750939 PMCID: PMC10646626 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20230189] [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: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Photon counting detector (PCD) CT represents the newest advance in CT technology, with improved radiation dose efficiency, increased spatial resolution, inherent spectral imaging capabilities, and the ability to eliminate electronic noise. Its design fundamentally differs from conventional energy integrating detector CT because photons are directly converted to electrical signal in a single step. Rather than converting X-rays to visible light and having an output signal that is a summation of energies, PCD directly counts each photon and records its individual energy information. The current commercially available PCD-CT utilizes a dual-source CT geometry, which allows 66 ms cardiac temporal resolution and high-pitch (up to 3.2) scanning. This can greatly benefit pediatric patients by facilitating high quality fast scanning to allow sedation-free imaging. The energy-resolving nature of the utilized PCDs allows "always-on" dual-energy imaging capabilities, such as the creation of virtual monoenergetic, virtual non-contrast, virtual non-calcium, and other material-specific images. These features may be combined with high-resolution imaging, made possible by the decreased size of individual detector elements and the absence of interelement septa. This work reviews the foundational concepts associated with PCD-CT and presents examples to highlight the benefits of PCD-CT in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly K. Horst
- Pediatric Radiology Division, Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | - Lifeng Yu
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | | | - Andrea Esquivel
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | | | | | - Francis Baffour
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | - Nathan C. Hull
- Pediatric Radiology Division, Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | | | - Paul G. Thacker
- Pediatric Radiology Division, Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | - Kristen B. Thomas
- Pediatric Radiology Division, Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | - Larry A. Binkovitz
- Pediatric Radiology Division, Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | - Julie B. Guerin
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
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9
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Ferrero A, Powell GM, Adaaquah DK, Rajendran K, Thorne JE, Krych AJ, Horst KK, McCollough CH, Baffour FI. Feasibility of photon-counting CT for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome evaluation: lower radiation dose and improved diagnostic confidence. Skeletal Radiol 2023; 52:1651-1659. [PMID: 36971838 DOI: 10.1007/s00256-023-04325-4] [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: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The feasibility of low-dose photon-counting detector (PCD) CT to measure alpha and acetabular version angles of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). MATERIAL AND METHODS FAI patients undergoing an energy-integrating detector (EID) CT underwent an IRB-approved prospective ultra-high-resolution (UHR) PCD-CT between 5/2021 and 12/2021. PCD-CT was dose-matched to the EID-CT or acquired at 50% dose. Simulated 50% dose EID-CT images were generated. Two radiologists evaluated randomized EID-CT and PCD-CT images and measured alpha and acetabular version angles on axial image slices. Image quality (noise, artifacts, and visualization of cortex) and confidence in non-FAI pathology were rated on a 4-point scale (3 = adequate). Preference tests of standard dose PCD-CT, 50% dose PCD-CT, and 50% dose EID-CT relative to standard dose EID-CT were performed using Wilcoxon Rank test. RESULTS 20 patients underwent standard dose EID-CT (~ CTDIvol, 4.5 mGy); 10 patients, standard dose PCD-CT (4.0 mGy); 10 patients, 50% PCD-CT (2.6 mGy). Standard dose EID-CT images were scored as adequate for diagnostic task in all categories (range 2.8-3.0). Standard dose PCD-CT images scored higher than the reference in all categories (range 3.5-4, p < 0.0033). Half-dose PCD-CT images also scored higher for noise and cortex visualization (p < 0.0033) and equivalent for artifacts and visualization of non-FAI pathology. Finally, simulated 50% EID-CT images scored lower in all categories (range 1.8-2.4, p < 0.0033). CONCLUSIONS Dose-matched PCD-CT is superior to EID-CT for alpha angle and acetabular version measurement in the work up of FAI. UHR-PCD-CT enables 50% radiation dose reduction compared to EID while remaining adequate for the imaging task.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ferrero
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, 55902, MN, USA
| | - Garret M Powell
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, 55902, MN, USA
| | - Dennis K Adaaquah
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, 55902, MN, USA
| | - Kishore Rajendran
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, 55902, MN, USA
| | - Jamison E Thorne
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, 55902, MN, USA
| | - Aaron J Krych
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Kelly K Horst
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, 55902, MN, USA
| | - Cynthia H McCollough
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, 55902, MN, USA
| | - Francis I Baffour
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, 55902, MN, USA.
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10
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Flohr T, Schmidt B. Technical Basics and Clinical Benefits of Photon-Counting CT. Invest Radiol 2023; 58:441-450. [PMID: 37185302 PMCID: PMC10259209 DOI: 10.1097/rli.0000000000000980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Novel photon-counting detector CT (PCD-CT) has the potential to address the limitations of previous CT systems, such as insufficient spatial resolution, limited accuracy in detecting small low-contrast structures, or missing routine availability of spectral information. In this review article, we explain the basic principles and potential clinical benefits of PCD-CT, with a focus on recent literature that has grown rapidly since the commercial introduction of a clinically approved PCD-CT.
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