Coronary artery calcium quantification technique using dual energy material decomposition: a simulation study.

Coronary artery calcification is a significant predictor of cardiovascular disease, with current detection methods like Agatston scoring having limitations in sensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel CAC quantification method using dual-energy material decomposition, particularly its ability to detect low-density calcium and microcalcifications. A simulation study was conducted comparing the dual-energy material decomposition technique against the established Agatston scoring method and the newer volume fraction calcium mass technique.

Coronary artery calcium mass measurement based on integrated intensity and volume fraction techniques.

Purpose: Agatston scoring does not detect all the calcium present in computed tomography scans of the heart. A technique that removes the need for thresholding and quantifies calcium mass more accurately and reproducibly is needed.

Approach: Integrated intensity and volume fraction techniques were evaluated for accurate quantification of calcium mass.

Integrated intensity-based technique for coronary artery calcium mass measurement: A phantom study.

Background: Agatston scoring, the traditional method for measuring coronary artery calcium, is limited in its ability to accurately quantify low-density calcifications, among other things. The inaccuracy of Agatston scoring is likely due partly to the arbitrary thresholding requirement of Agatston scoring.

Purpose: A calcium quantification technique that removes the need for arbitrary thresholding and is more accurate, sensitive, reproducible, and robust is needed.