Comparative study of image quality and radiation dose in thoracic-abdominal-pelvic CT Enhancement with different tube voltages and reconstruction algorithms

Objectives

To evaluate the image quality and radiation dose in thoracic-abdominal-pelvic computed tomography enhancement using ATVM (Automatic Tube Voltage Modulation)coupled with AIIR versus routine tube voltage combined with Karl-3D IR. The optimal noise level for the AIIR in thoracic-abdominal-pelvic CT enhancement was also determined.

Methods

Group A was scanned using ATVM, and images were reconstructed using AIIR with 1–5 noise levels. Group B was scanned and reconstructed using the fixed tube voltage (120 kVp) combined with Karl 3D level 5 IR. The image quality of the reconstructed images of AIIR with 1–5 noise levels were compared and the best image reconstruction noise level for AIIR was preferred. Image quality and radiation dose were statistically analyzed for group A (best image reconstruction noise level for AIIR) and group B.

Results

AIIR level 3 is the optimal noise level for CT-enhanced image reconstruction of the thorax, abdomen, and pelvis. The mean SNR, CNR, and subjective evaluation of AIIR level 3 Group A images were better than those of Karl 3D level 5 Group B images (p < 0.05). The mean SSDE and the mean ED of the AIIR Group A patients were reduced by 46% and 41%, respectively, compared with those of Group B.

Conclusions

ATVM technology combined with the AIIR algorithm improved image quality and reduced patient radiation dose in thoracic-abdominal-pelvic CT scans. The optimal noise level for the reconstruction of high-quality arterial and venous-phase images was AIIR level 3.