Neuroimaging clinics of North America
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2017
ReviewDual-Energy Computed Tomography: Physical Principles, Approaches to Scanning, Usage, and Implementation: Part 2.
There are increasing applications and use of spectral computed tomography or dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in neuroradiology and head and neck imaging in routine clinical practice. Part 1 of this 2-part review covered fundamental physical principles underlying DECT scanning and the different approaches for scanning. Part 2 focuses on important and practical considerations for implementing and using DECT in clinical practice, including a review of different images and reconstructions produced by these scanners and important and practical issues, ranging from image quality and radiation dose to workflow-related aspects of DECT scanning, that routinely come up during operationalization of DECT.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2017
ReviewMiscellaneous and Emerging Applications of Dual-Energy Computed Tomography for the Evaluation of Intracranial Pathology.
Dual-energy computed tomography (CT) has the potential to improve detection of abnormalities and increase diagnostic confidence in the evaluation of a variety of neurologic conditions by using different x-ray energy-dependent absorption behaviors of different materials. This article reviews the virtual monochromatic imaging applications of dual-energy CT, particularly material decomposition algorithms to improve lesion conspicuity, define lesion-normal tissue interface using different reconstruction techniques, and discuss miscellaneous emerging applications of dual-energy CT for neuroimaging, with an emphasis on their potential clinical utility.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2017
ReviewRoutine Dual-Energy Computed Tomography Scanning of the Neck in Clinical Practice: A Single-Institution Experience.
There is increasing use and popularity of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in many subspecialties in radiology. This article reviews the practical workflow implications of routine DECT scanning based on the experience at a single institution where a large percentage of elective neck CTs are acquired in DECT mode. The article reviews factors both on the production (technologist) and on the interpretation (radiologist) side, focusing on challenges posed and potential solutions for seamless workflow implementation.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2017
ReviewApplications of Dual-Energy Computed Tomography for the Evaluation of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
There are multiple emerging applications of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) for the evaluation of pathology in the head and neck, in particular head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Studies suggest that DECT image sets reconstructed as supplements to routine diagnostic images may improve lesion visualization, determination of tumor extent, and identification of invasion of critical anatomic structures. This article reviews the evidence for the use and potential advantages of supplementary DECT reconstructions for the evaluation of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. A summary of potentially useful reconstructions and a suggested approach for multiparametric DECT evaluation of head and neck cancer based on current evidence are presented.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2017
ReviewApplications of Dual-Energy Computed Tomography for Artifact Reduction in the Head, Neck, and Spine.
Conventional computed tomography (CT) uses a polychromatic energy beam to offer superb anatomic detail of the head and spine. However, technical challenges remain that can degrade the diagnostic image quality of these examinations. Dual-energy CT analyzes the changes in attenuation of soft tissues at different energy levels, from which different reconstructions can be made to yield the optimal contrast-to-noise ratio, reduce beam-hardening artifact, or evaluate tissue composition. In this article, selective applications of the dual energy CT technique are discussed, highlighting a powerful tool in the diagnostic CT evaluation of the head, neck, and spine.