Comparison of image quality, arterial depiction, and radiation dose between two rapid kVp-switching dual-energy CT scanners in CT angiography at 40-keV

Abstract

Purpose To compare the quantitative parameters and qualitative image quality of dual-energy CT angiography (CTA) between two rapid kVp-switching dual-energy CT scanners. Materials and methods Between May 2021 and March 2022, 79 participants underwent whole-body CTA using either Discovery CT750 HD (Group A, n = 38) or Revolution CT Apex (Group B, n = 41). All data were reconstructed at 40-keV and with adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-Veo of 40%. The two groups were compared in terms of CT numbers of the thoracic and abdominal aorta, and the iliac artery, background noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the artery, CT dose-index volume (CTDIvol), and qualitative scores for image noise, sharpness, diagnostic acceptability, and arterial depictions. Results The median CT number of the abdominal aorta (p = 0.04) and SNR of the thoracic aorta (p = 0.02) were higher in Group B than in Group A, while no difference was observed in the other CT numbers and SNRs of the artery (p = 0.09–0.23). The background noises at the thoracic (p = 0.11), abdominal (p = 0.85), and pelvic (p = 0.85) regions were comparable between the two groups. CTDIvol was lower in Group B than in Group A (p = 0.006). All qualitative scores were higher in Group B than in Group A (p < 0.001–0.04). The arterial depictions were nearly identical in both two groups (p = 0.005–1.0). Conclusion In dual-energy CTA at 40-keV, Revolution CT Apex improved qualitative image quality and reduced radiation dose.

Low-iodine 40-keV virtual monoenergetic CT angiography of the lower extremities

“…Using low keV VMI enhances iodinated contrast in the image, enabling iodine dose reduction. Multiple studies have recently shown the interest of using 40 keV VMI to improve diagnostic accuracy and image quality in different vascular settings and with different CT detector technologies such as dual source, dual layer and fast kVp switching ( 23 – 25 ). In a phantom study, up to 40%–60% iodine reduction could be achieved without loss in image quality ( 26 ).…”