Evaluation of Image Quality of Overweight and Obese Patients in CT Using High Data Rate Detectors.

Abstract

To evaluate the impact of high data rate and sampling frequency detector technology compared to standard scan equipment on the image quality in abdominal computed tomography (CT) of overweight and obese patients. A total of 173 patients were retrospectively included in this study. Objective image quality in abdominal CT was evaluated using comparative analysis with new detector technology prior to market launch and standard CT equipment. Contrast noise ratio (CNR), image noise, volumetric computed tomography dose index (CTDIVol), and figures of merit (Q and Q1) were assessed for all patients. Image quality was superior in the new detector technology for all parameters evaluated. The dose dependent parameters Q and Q1 showed a significant difference (p<0.001). A significant increase in objective image quality could be demonstrated using a new generation detector setup with increased frequency transfer in abdominal CT of overweight patients.