A method for improving iodine contrast enhancement in abdominal computed tomography: experimental study in a pig model

作者：Noel Peter B^*; Bendik Edgar; Muenzel Daniela; Schneider Armin; Goshen Liran; Gringauz Asher; Lamash Yechiel; Vlassenbroek Alain; Fingerle Alexander A; Rummeny Ernst J; Dobritz Martin

来源：European Radiology, 2013, 23(4): 985-990.

DOI：10.1007/s00330-012-2668-y

• Computed tomography
• Contrast enhancement
• Contrast-enhanced computed tomography
• Contrast agent
• Non-ionic iodine

To investigate the improvement in diagnostic image quality of an iodine contrast enhancement tool in an animal model for computed tomography (CT).
One pig was examined over several consecutive days with a CT system. The quantity of iodine as contrast medium (0.6-1.2 ml/kg) varied among different acquisitions. The contrast enhancement in the reconstructed slices was improved via a post-processing tool. The post-processing tool is an algorithm designed for enhancement of iodine contrast in CT data. Contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), the detectability between soft-tissue and vascular structures, and quantitative image analysis were assessed.
When reducing the quantity of contrast medium, our subjective image quality assessment revealed that it is visually possible to generate similar enhancement with less iodine. This observation was confirmed quantitatively in our CNR results. While employing the algorithm, the CNR between vascular structures and subcutaneous fat significantly improved. For unenhanced regions, we identified no change in HU values and no significant strengthening of artefacts.
With post-processing there was a significantly improved diagnostic image quality compared with non-processed data. In particular, similar contrast enhancement could be achieved with a reduced quantity of contrast medium injected during the CT acquisition.
aEuro cent Enhancement with iodine based contrast agents is an essential part of CT
aEuro cent A new post-processing tool significantly improves diagnostic image quality
aEuro cent It may also help reduce the iodine load required for intravenous enhancement.

• 出版日期2013-4