Hao Luwen, Chen Xin, Jiang Yuchen, Wang Yufan, Hu Xuemei, Hu Daoyu, Li Zhen, Shen Yaqi
Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
Department of Radiology, Taikang Tongji (Wuhan) Hospital, Wuhan 430050, China.
Bioengineering (Basel). 2024 Dec 20;11(12):1300. doi: 10.3390/bioengineering11121300.
This study aimed to optimize CT esophagography by identifying effective oral contrast dilution ratios and exploring the advantages of dual-energy CT (DECT) over conventional CT for improving image quality. Ex vivo experiments using iodine contrast agents (320-400 mgI/mL) at 21 dilution ratios were scanned at three voltages, with additional dual-energy scans generating various reconstruction images. Image quality was assessed both objectively and subjectively. The study found significant variability in image quality across different dilution ratios. Specific dilution ratios that produced image quality comparable to the control group (a commercial oral contrast agent) and those meeting the standards for clinical diagnosis and high-quality images were identified based on image quality assessments. Recommendations for preparing 100 mL of oral contrast solution were provided, such as for achieving high-quality images at a scanning voltage of 100 kVp: the optimal dilution ratios are 1:6 to 1:19 for 320 mgI/mL, and 1:8 to 1:19 for 350 to 400 mgI/mL. Additionally, beam-hardening artifacts were significantly reduced in DECT images. These findings provide valuable guidance for improving CT esophagography protocols.
本研究旨在通过确定有效的口服对比剂稀释比例，并探索双能CT（DECT）相对于传统CT在改善图像质量方面的优势，来优化CT食管造影。使用碘对比剂（320 - 400 mgI/mL）以21种稀释比例进行的离体实验在三个电压下进行扫描，另外的双能扫描生成了各种重建图像。从客观和主观两方面评估图像质量。该研究发现不同稀释比例下的图像质量存在显著差异。基于图像质量评估，确定了产生与对照组（一种商用口服对比剂）相当的图像质量以及符合临床诊断和高质量图像标准的特定稀释比例。给出了制备100 mL口服对比剂溶液的建议，例如在100 kVp扫描电压下获得高质量图像时：对于320 mgI/mL，最佳稀释比例为1:6至1:19；对于350至400 mgI/mL，最佳稀释比例为1:8至1:19。此外，DECT图像中的硬化伪影明显减少。这些发现为改进CT食管造影方案提供了有价值的指导。
