Image quality in CT thorax: effect of altering reconstruction algorithm and tube load.

Non-linear properties of iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithms can alter image texture. We evaluated the effect of a model-based IR algorithm (advanced modelled iterative reconstruction; ADMIRE) and dose on computed tomography thorax image quality. Dual-source scanner data were acquired at 20, 45 and 65 reference mAs in 20 patients.

Learning effects in visual grading assessment of model-based reconstruction algorithms in abdominal Computed Tomography.

Objectives: Images reconstructed with higher strengths of iterative reconstruction algorithms may impair radiologists' subjective perception and diagnostic performance due to changes in the amplitude of different spatial frequencies of noise. The aim of the present study was to ascertain if radiologists can learn to adapt to the unusual appearance of images produced by higher strengths of Advanced modeled iterative reconstruction algorithm (ADMIRE).

Methods: Two previously published studies evaluated the performance of ADMIRE in non-contrast and contrast-enhanced abdominal CT.

Assessment of image quality in abdominal computed tomography: Effect of model-based iterative reconstruction, multi-planar reconstruction and slice thickness on potential dose reduction.

Purpose: To determine the effect of tube load, model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR) strength and slice thickness in abdominal CT using visual comparison of multi-planar reconstruction images.

Method: Five image criteria were assessed independently by four radiologists on two data sets at 42- and 98-mAs tube loads for 25 patients examined on a 192-slice dual-source CT scanner. Effect of tube load, MBIR strength, slice thickness and potential dose reduction was estimated with Visual Grading Regression (VGR).

Image quality and pathology assessment in CT Urography: when is the low-dose series sufficient?

Background: Our aim was to compare CT images from native, nephrographic and excretory phases using image quality criteria as well as the detection of positive pathological findings in CT Urography, to explore if the radiation burden to the younger group of patients or patients with negative outcomes can be reduced.

Methods: This is a retrospective study of 40 patients who underwent a CT Urography examination on a 192-slice dual source scanner. Image quality was assessed for four specific renal image criteria from the European guidelines, together with pathological assessment in three categories: renal, other abdominal, and incidental findings without clinical significance.

Assessment of image quality in abdominal CT: potential dose reduction with model-based iterative reconstruction.

Purpose: To estimate potential dose reduction in abdominal CT by visually comparing images reconstructed with filtered back projection (FBP) and strengths of 3 and 5 of a specific MBIR.

Material And Methods: A dual-source scanner was used to obtain three data sets each for 50 recruited patients with 30, 70 and 100% tube loads (mean CTDI 1.9, 3.

IMPLICATIONS OF PATIENT CENTRING ON ORGAN DOSE IN COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY.

Automatic exposure control (AEC) in computed tomography (CT) facilitates optimisation of dose absorbed by the patient. The use of AEC requires appropriate 'patient centring' within the gantry, since positioning the patient off-centre may affect both image quality and absorbed dose. The aim of this experimental study was to measure the variation in organ and abdominal surface dose during CT examinations of the head, neck/thorax and abdomen.

Patient dose and image quality in low-dose abdominal CT: a comparison between iterative reconstruction and filtered back projection.

Background: In computed tomography (CT), there is increasing concern for potential CT radiation hazards. Several raw-data-based iterative reconstruction techniques attempt to facilitate low-dose imaging without compromising image quality, which raises the question whether these techniques may allow further dose reduction.

Purpose: To compare image quality of iterative reconstruction and filtered back projection in low-dose abdominal CT and study the potential for further dose reduction.