Although image quality decreases significantly at 30 mAs (3.6 mSv), polyp detection remains unimpaired. The median dose for CT colonography at institutions that perform CT colonographic research is currently 8.8 mSv.

A crucial step in volume rendering is the design of transfer functions that will highlight those aspects of the volume data that are of interest to the user. For many applications, boundaries carry most of the relevant information. Reliable detection of boundaries is often hampered by limitations of the imaging process, such as blurring and noise. We present a method to identify the materials that form the boundaries. These materials are then used in a new domain that facilitates interactive and semiautomatic design of appropriate transfer functions. We also show how the obtained boundary information can be used in region-growing-based segmentation.

The authors compared a conventional two-directional three-dimensional (3D) display for computed tomography (CT) colonography with an alternative method they developed on the basis of time efficiency and surface visibility. With the conventional technique, 3D ante- and retrograde cine loops were obtained (hereafter, conventional 3D). With the alternative method, six projections were obtained at 90 degrees viewing angles (unfolded cube display). Mean evaluation time per patient with the conventional 3D display was significantly longer than that with the unfolded cube display. With the conventional 3D method, 93.8% of the colon surface came into view; with the unfolded cube method, 99.5% of the colon surface came into view. Sensitivity and specificity were not significantly different between the two methods. Agreements between observers were kappa = 0.605 for conventional 3D display and kappa = 0.692 for unfolded cube display. Consequently, the latter method enhances the 3D endoluminal display with improved time efficiency and higher surface visibility.

In a feasibility study, the authors compared polyp detection and interobserver variability at computed tomographic (CT) colonography in 15 patients with doses ranging from medium to very low (12.00-0.05 mSv). At levels down to 2% of the medium dose, the mean detection of polyps 5 mm or larger remained at least 74%, while the number of false-positive results decreased and the interobserver agreement remained constant. Initial observations indicate that it is feasible to reduce the radiation dose required for CT colonography. Further studies are needed, however, to investigate the clinical value of very low-dose CT colonography.

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