Optimized versus conventional trigger threshold for pancreatic phase image acquisition using dual-energy CT at 40-keV: a randomized controlled trial.

Purpose: To evaluate the impact of optimized trigger threshold on 40-keV pancreatic phase images acquired with a dual-energy CT (DECT) protocol.

Methods: A cohort of 69 consecutive participants (median age, 72 years) undergoing a pancreatic protocol DECT examination between September to December 2021 were prospectively randomized into two protocols: conventional trigger threshold of 100 HU (Group A, n = 34) and optimized trigger threshold of 30 HU (Group B, n = 35). Pancreatic phase image acquisition was performed with fixed delay of 20 s from the trigger threshold.

Pancreatic cancer detection with dual-energy CT: diagnostic performance of 40 keV and 70 keV virtual monoenergetic images.

Purpose: To compare the diagnostic performance of 40 keV and 70 keV virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) generated from dual-energy CT in the detection of pancreatic cancer.

Methods: This retrospective study included patients who underwent pancreatic protocol dual-energy CT from January 2019 to August 2022. Four radiologists (1-11 years of experience), who were blinded to the final diagnosis, independently and randomly interpreted 40 keV and 70 keV VMIs and graded the presence or absence of pancreatic cancer.