Spiral versus conventional CT in routine examinations of the neck.

OBJECTIVE

Our goal was to optimize the efficiency of contrast material (CM) application in routine examinations of the neck by the use of spiral CT and slow power injection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dynamic studies were performed in 14 patients to establish a set protocol for spiral CT examinations of the neck. Prospectively, 100 patients were examined either by use of the spiral technique with 100 ml CM (30 g iodine) injected in two phases or in conventional CT with 150 ml CM (45 g iodine). Vascular and parenchymal enhancement was evaluated at three distinct levels of the neck.

RESULTS

Despite the reduced CM volume in spiral CT, vascular enhancement was significantly higher at all three levels. Parenchymal enhancement was comparable in both groups. CM exploitation in vascular opacification (ratio of mean enhancement to applied CM volume) was 0.87 in spiral CT compared with 0.43 in conventional CT.

CONCLUSION

Spiral CT significantly increases the efficiency of CM application and is well suited for routine examinations of the neck.