64-slice CT Scanner Research Articles

A study to correlate the association of Gender, Age, Physiology (GAP) index and radiological patterns in interstitial lung disease

ABSTRACT Background: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) encompasses a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of lung tissue, leading to impaired gas exchange and respiratory failure. The GAP index, based on gender, age, and pulmonary function, predicts mortality and disease severity in patients with ILD. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is a critical diagnostic tool that provides detailed information on lung morphology and disease extent. This study aims to investigate the relationship between HRCT patterns and the GAP index in patients with ILD, enhancing disease staging and prognostication. Objectives: 1. To identify various radiological patterns in ILD patients using HRCT of the thorax. 2) To correlate these radiological patterns with the GAP index and verify the relationship mentioned above. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study analyzed data from 154 patients with ILD treated at Victoria Hospital, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, from January 2021 to September 2023. The inclusion criteria included patients aged ≥ 18 years diagnosed with ILD based on the ATS/ERS criteria. Thoracic HRCT was performed using a Philips Ingenuity 128-slice CT scanner, and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were conducted using a Power cube Diffusion Plus spirometer. The GAP score was calculated, and the HRCT patterns were compared with the GAP stages. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics software. Results: The study population had a mean age of 55.5 years, consisting of 68 males and 86 females. Shortness of breath (97.4%) and cough (87.7%) were the most common symptoms. Hypertension (31.2%) and diabetes mellitus (28.6%) were the most common comorbidities observed. The prevalence of definitive UIP sharply increased in stage 3 (58.8%) compared to stage 1 (9.5%) and stage 2 (41.5%), with a highly significant P value (<0.0001). In contrast, NSIP was more common in Stage 1 (39.3%) and decreases in later stages, with a significant P value (0.011). Over half of the patients were in GAP Stage 1 (54.5%), with significant correlations found between advancing GAP stages and an increased prevalence of honeycombing (P = 0.0005) and traction bronchiectasis (P = 0.010). The ground-glass opacity decreased with increasing GAP stage (P = 0.035). Conclusion: This study revealed a significant correlation between particular HRCT patterns and GAP index stages in patients with ILD, highlighting the importance of honeycombing and traction bronchiectasis as indicators of advanced disease. This approach is advantageous in both resource-limited settings, where HRCT availability is limited, and in advanced medical centers, as it can help minimize the need for frequent CT scans.

Determination of gender dimorphism of the morphometric indicators of the human orbit depending on the craniotype

The issue of studying sexual dimorphism of skull structures depending on the craniotype remains relevant. The purpose was to study the morphometric parameters of the human orbit depending on the craniotype and gender. The study was conducted on 125 computed tomography scans of people's heads aged 25 to 85 years, performed using a computer tomography Neusoft, NeuViz 16 Essence 16-Slice CT Scanner System (Neusoft Medical Sytems Co, USA). Craniometric measurements were performed using programs Horos, ver. 4.0.1 (Neusoft Medical Sytems Co, USA) and RadiAnt Dicom Viewer, ver. 2024.1 (Medixant, Poland). The study was conducted with a slice thickness of 1.5 mm, followed by reconstruction in three planes. The basic facial index was calculated using the Garson-Kolman formula. It has been established that the height, width, perimeter, area, and conditional radius of the orbital opening of male euriprosopes are significantly different from similar indicators of females. In mesoprosopes, only the height of the orbital opening of men and women has a reliably significant difference. No statistically significant difference in the above indicators between representatives of different sexes was found in leptoprosops. No statistically significant differences in arithmetic mean values of the investigated indicators of the right and left eye sockets, as well as persons of different age groups, were found. According to the orbital index, all research objects were divided into 3 groups: khameconchs, mesoconchs, hypsiconchs. It has been established that the majority of both males and females belong to hypsiconchs, mesoconchs occupy an intermediate position, and the smallest group is khameconchs. The most widespread groups are hypsiconchs with euryprosopic facial skull shape and hypsiconchs with mesoprosopic shape. Keywords: skull, morphometry, orbital index, orbital opening.

Investigation of organs dosimetry precision using ATOM phantom and optically stimulated luminescence detectors in computed tomography

The primary objective of this study was to compare organ doses measured using optically stimulated luminescent dosimeters (OSLDs) with those estimated by the CT-EXPO software for common CT protocols. An anthropomorphic ATOM phantom was employed to measure organ doses across head, chest, and abdominal CT scans performed on a Hitachi Supria 16-slice CT scanner. These OSLD measurements were then compared to the estimates provided by the widely used CT-EXPO software. Organ doses were assessed using OSLDs placed in an adult anthropomorphic phantom, with calibration performed through a comprehensive process involving multiple tube potentials and sensitivity corrections. Results from three CT acquisitions per protocol were compared to estimates provided by CT-EXPO software. Findings reveal significant discrepancies between measured and estimated organ doses, with p-values consistently below 0.05 across all organs. For head CT, measured eye lens doses averaged 33.51 mGy, 6.0% lower than the estimated 35.65 mGy. In chest CT, the thyroid dose was 9.82 mGy, 13.5% higher than the estimated 8.65 mGy. For abdominal CT, the liver dose measured 12.11 mGy, 9.6% higher than the estimated 11.05 mGy. Measured doses for the rest of organs were generally lower than those predicted by CT-EXPO, showing some limitations in current estimation models and the importance of precise dosimetry. This study highlights the potential of OSLD measurements as a complementary method for organ dose assessment in CT imaging, emphasizing the need for more accurate organ dose measurement to optimize patient care.

Analysis of the Relationship between Image Noise Value and Computed Tomography Dose Index (CTDI) on Pitch Variation of Routine Abdominal CT Protocol at Koja Regional Hospital, North Jakarta

Computed Tomography (CT) has become one of the primary diagnostic methods in modern medicine, allowing detailed and accurate visualization of the internal structures of the human body. In its use, the pitch value can affect the radiation dose received by the patient and the quality of the resulting image. This study aims to analyze the effect of pitch variations on the Computed Tomography Dose Index (CTDI) and image noise in Routine Abdominal CT to achieve the best image quality with minimal patient dose. This research method uses a quantitative design using a 32 cm diameter PMMA water phantom as a model. Eight pitch variations (0.40, 0.55, 0.60, 0.80, 0.90, 1.00, 1.35, and 1.50) were evaluated using a Siemens Somatom Perspective 128 Slice CT-Scan. Data were collected through experiments on the water phantom and analyzed using descriptive analysis, normality tests, and correlation tests. The results showed no significant relationship between CTDI values and image noise with pitch variations. Increasing the pitch value contributed to increasing CTDI but decreased image noise. These results indicate that a pitch of 0.60 has an optimal image noise value and minimal CTDI in the Routine CT Abdomen protocol at RSUD Koja, North Jakarta. This study provides a deeper understanding of the importance of selecting the correct pitch value in minimizing patient radiation dose while maintaining good image quality. The practical implication is using a pitch of 0.60 as the optimal value for the Routine CT Abdomen protocol, which can reduce the risk of excessive radiation exposure to patients. Keywords: CT-Scan, pitch, water phantom, CT Abdomen, noise, computed tomography dose index (CTDI)

Trabecular Attenuation of L1 in Adult Patients with Multiple Myeloma: An Observational Study on Low-Dose CT Images.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of trabecular attenuation of the L1 vertebral body in low-dose CT in adult patients with multiple myeloma (MM), smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). The study population consisted of 22 patients with MGUS and 51 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed MM (SMM, n = 21; symptomatic MM, n = 36). CT scans were conducted using a 128-slice CT scanner (Somatom go.Top, Siemens, Munich, Germany). Low-dose whole-body CT scans were performed at a single time point for each patient. Trabecular bone density values were obtained by defining regions of interest on non-contrast images at the level of L1 vertebra. A threshold of p = 0.05 was applied to determine statistical significance. The median Hounsfield unit (HU) value in patients with MGUS, SMM, and MM was 148 HU (range 81-190), 130 HU (range 93-193), and 92 HU (range 26-190), respectively, with a statistically significant difference between the groups (p = 0.0015). Patients with HU values ≤ 92 had lower progression-free survival with statistically significant differences compared to the group with HU values > 92 (p < 0.0499). This is the earliest evidence of the importance of evaluating L1 attenuation values in low-dose CT images in patients with MGUS, SMM, and MM. Further prospective studies could contribute to reinforcing these results and exploring the clinical applicability and generalization of L1 attenuation values in low-dose whole-body CT scans in routine clinical practice.

Dual-Energy Computed Tomography-Guided Assessment of Visceral Adiposity and Its Correlation With Lipid Function Test: A Retrospective Study.

Introduction Obesity, a prevalent global health concern, is associated with various chronic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome. Visceral adiposity, the accumulation of fat around internal organs, has a more significant impact on metabolic health compared to subcutaneous fat. Accurate assessment of visceral fat is critical for predicting metabolic risks. Dual-Energy Computed Tomography (DECT) is emerging as an effective tool for quantifying visceral adiposity, allowing for enhanced tissue differentiation. This study aims to assess visceral adiposity using DECT and explore its correlation with lipid function tests, including cholesterol and triglyceride levels, in a cohort of patients. Materials and methods This retrospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Radiology at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Chennai. Data from 100 patientsaged 25 to 75 years with a BMI of 25 kg/m² or higher, were analyzed. DECT scans were performed using a Siemens SOMATOM go.Top 128-slice CT scanner (Siemens, Munich) to quantify visceral fat, particularly mesenteric fat. Lipid function tests were conducted to measure total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to analyze the relationship between visceral fat volume and lipid profile components. Results The study found significant correlations between visceral adiposity and lipid profile components. Total Visceral Fat Area (VFA) volume positively correlated with total cholesterol (r = 0.65, p < 0.01), LDL cholesterol (r = 0.58, p < 0.01), and triglycerides (r = 0.52, p < 0.05). An inverse relationship was observed between VFA volume and HDL cholesterol (r = -0.48, p < 0.05). Regression analysis confirmed that VFA volume is an independent predictor of these lipid levels after adjusting for age, gender, and BMI. The study also reported the prevalence of hepatomegaly in 11 (36.6%) cases and fatty liver in nine (30%) cases in the study population, underscoring the metabolic implications of visceral fat accumulation. Conclusion This study highlights the significant role of visceral adiposity in influencing lipid metabolism and associated cardiovascular risks. DECT proved to be a precise and reliable tool for assessing visceral fat and its metabolic implications. The findings suggest that increased visceral fat is associated with adverse lipid profiles, contributing to a higher risk of metabolic disorders. These results emphasize the need for incorporating advanced imaging techniques like DECT in clinical practice for better risk stratification and personalized treatment strategies in patients with obesity and related metabolic conditions.

Initial Clinical Experience With a Novel Robotically Assisted Platform for Combined Mini-Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy and Flexible Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy.

We sought to evaluate the technical feasibility of performing a combined robotically assisted mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and flexible ureteroscopy (URS) procedure by a single urologist using the MONARCH Platform, Urology (Johnson & Johnson MedTech, Redwood City, California). In this prospective, first-in-human clinical trial, 13 patients underwent robotically-assisted PCNL for renal calculi at the University of California-Irvine, Department of Urology. Successful completion of the procedure was assessed as the primary endpoint. Postoperative adverse events were monitored for 30 days following the completion of the procedure. Stone ablation efficiency was evaluated on postoperative day 30 with low-dose 2-3 mm slice CT scans. Patients were classified according to the maximum length of their residual stone fragments as either absolute stone-free (Grade A), < 2 mm remnants (Grade B), or 2.1-4.0 mm remnants (Grade C). The combined robotic mini-PCNL and URS procedure was successfully completed in 12 of 13 procedures. No robotic device-related adverse events occurred. Preoperative stone burden was quantified by both maximum linear measurement (median 32.8 mm) as well as by CT-based volume (median 1645.9 mm3). Using the unique robotically assisted targeting system, percutaneous access was gained directly through the center of the renal papilla in a single pass in all cases. Median operative time was 187 minutes (range: 83-383 minutes). On postoperative day 30, a 98.7% (range: 72.9%-100.0%) volume reduction was achieved, with 5 Grade A (38.5%), 1 Grade B (7.7%), and 2 Grade C (15.4%). Three patients experienced complications (2 grade 1 and one grade 2 Clavien-Dindo). Our preliminary investigation demonstrates the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of a unique robotic-assisted combined mini-PCNL and URS platform.

Linearity Test of CT Number and Spatial Resolution Using ACR 464 Phantom for Image Quality Assessment on a 16-Slice CT Scanner

Linearity Test of CT Number and Spatial Resolution Using ACR 464 Phantom for Image Quality Assessment on a 16-Slice CT Scanner

Evaluation of direct point dose estimation based on the distribution of the size-specific dose estimate.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the point doses using a distribution of the size-specific dose estimate (SSDE) from axial CT images of in-house phantoms having diameters from 8 to 40cm. In-house phantoms made of polyester-resin (PESR) mixed with methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (MEKP) were used. The phantoms were built with different diameter sizes of 8, 16, 24, 32, and 40cm. The phantoms were scanned by Siemens a SOMATOM Perspective-128 slice CT scanner with constant input parameters. The point doses were interpolated from the central SSDE (SSDEc) and the peripheral SSDE (SSDEp). The SSDEc and SSDEp were calculated from the SSDE with h- and k-factors. The point doses were compared to the direct measurements using the nanoDot™ optically-stimulated luminescence dosimeter (OSLD) in dedicated holes on the phantoms. It was found that the point dose decreases as the phantom diameter increased. The doses obtained using two approaches differed by 11% on average. The highest difference was 40% and the lowest difference was < 1%. It was found that dose based on the SSDE concept tended to be higher compared to the measured dose by OSLD. Point dose estimation using the concept of SSDE distribution can be considered an alternative for accurate and simple estimation. This approach still requires improvements to increase its accuracy and its application to estimate the organ dose needs further investigation.

Prevalence of trochlear dysplasia in an 1162 retrospective cohort study using CT scans

Hypothesis/purposeThe prevalence of trochlear dysplasia is common in different populations.BackgroundThe prevalence of trochlear dysplasia in the general population, categorised by sex, race, age, and body mass index, has been sparse. This study aimed to define the prevalence of trochlear dysplasia based on the latter categories.Study designCohort retrospective study.Methods1162 skeletal mature healthy femora were obtained from a CT-scan-based modelling system (SOMA). Thin slice CT scans were acquired exclusively for medical indications such as polytrauma (20%), CT angiography (70%) and other reasons (i.e. Total Joint Replacement) (10%). Trochlear dysplasia was measured using Pfirmann’s method. Patient demographics such as age, race and sex were recorded.ResultsThe overall prevalence of trochlear dysplasia is 4.5% and is far more common in Asian female patients compared to Caucasian, African and Middle Eastern knees.ConclusionOverall, the prevalence of dysplasia in the general population was determined to be 4.5%, with female patients being more likely to suffer from the condition. Patients of Asian and Caucasian race were more likely to have trochlear dysplasia, while Middle Eastern male patients displayed more dysplastic values than their female counterparts.

Quantitative 3D-CT imaging of sarcopenia mitigation in the elderly: evidence from a case report.

This case study examines the effectiveness of using combined CT imaging and 3D imaging in monitoring the prevention of sarcopenia through continuous daily exercises in an elderly patient. Using a 256-slice CT scanner with dose reduction technology and advanced muscle segmentation with the open-source software DAFNE, we compared changes in muscle mass and density in a 70-year-old patient in 2014 and in 2023. The obtained images allowed the creation of detailed 3D models for a more accurate and intuitive assessment of the leg musculature. Despite aging, the results of the scans performed at the beginning and end of the study period did not show significant changes in the patient's musculature, suggesting that a persistent Full-Body in-Bed Gym protocol ("Gym Bed" exercise routine) can effectively contribute to maintaining muscle mass and density in the elderly. These preliminary results highlight the potential of advanced imaging techniques not only to diagnose but also to quantify the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions against sarcopenia.

Pulmonary High Resolution Computed Tomography Findings of COVID-19 Patients Using CO-RADS Classification: A Study on Pakistani Population

Background: This study aimed to use high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and the CO-RADS grading system to diagnose COVID-19 patients and determine severity. Methodology: A retrospective study analyzed data from 280 patients at Aziz Bhatti Shaheed Hospital Gujrat between January and August 2021. Informed consent and ethical approval were secured. Data collection used a 64-slice multi-detector CT scanner, including patients with positive and negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) findings. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Results: The study included more males (170, 60.7%) than females (110, 39.3%), with the most affected age group being 45-64 years. HRCT findings showed ground glass opacities in 212 cases (35.6%), consolidations in 158 cases (26.5%), Crazy paving sign in 54 cases (9.1%), pulmonary lesions in 54 cases (9.1%), interstitial lung disease in 42 cases (7.0%), pulmonary infiltrates in 32 cases (5.4%), atelectasis in 26 cases (4.4%), and pulmonary fibrosis in 18 cases (3.0%). CO-RADS classification results were: CO-RADS 1 (5, 1.8%), CO-RADS 2 (11, 3.9%), CO-RADS 3 (101, 36.1%), CO-RADS 4 (68, 24.3%), CO-RADS 5 (56, 20%), and CO-RADS 6 (39, 13.9%). PCR results were positive only in severe cases (starting from CO-RADS 2), while HRCT detected pulmonary findings even in less severe cases (starting from CO-RADS 1). Conclusion: High-resolution computed tomography accurately and quickly identifies COVID-19 infections, even when PCR findings are negative. The CO-RADS technique effectively determines the severity and spread of COVID-19. CO-RADS 3 was the most frequently reported category, with typical findings including peripheral ground glass opacities and bilateral pleural consolidations.

Major aortopulmonary collateral arteries: clinical, echocardiographic, and radiologic characteristics.

Major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCAs) are rare congenital anomalies with significant clinical implications, often associated with congenital heart diseases like tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) and pulmonary atresia (PA). This study aimed to investigate the clinical, echocardiographic, and radiologic characteristics of MAPCAs in patients with congenital heart diseases admitted to our clinic between 2016 and 2023. A retrospective analysis of 46 cases was conducted using chest computed tomography exams performed on a dual-source 128-slice CT scanner. Clinical data and radiologic characteristics were collected and analysed. The study revealed a strong correlation between congenital heart diseases and the presence of MAPCAs, with TOF, PA, and ventricular septal defect (VSD) being the most common, and it indicated that these collaterals may exist with non-diagnosed congenital heart disease. Tricuspid regurgitation and aortic insufficiency were the predominant echocardiographic findings. Radiologically, MAPCAs primarily originated from the descending aorta (type II) in 85% of cases, and their sizes ranged from ≤ 3 mm to > 10 mm, with an average of 5 mm. This study provides comprehensive insights into the clinical and radiologic aspects of MAPCAs in patients with congenital heart diseases. The findings emphasise the importance of early detection and intervention for better managing of these complex conditions and the need for further research.

Evaluation of mitral chordae tendineae length using four-dimensional computed tomography.

Mitral valvuloplasty using artificial chordae tendineae represents an effective surgical approach for treating mitral regurgitation. Achieving precise measurements of artificial chordae tendineae length (CL) is an important factor in the procedure; however, no objective index currently exists to facilitate this measurement. Therefore, preoperative assessment of CL is critical for surgical planning and support. Four-dimensional x-ray micro-computed tomography (4D-CT) may be useful for accurate CL measurement considering that it allows for dynamic three-dimensional (3D) evaluation compared to that with transthoracic echocardiography, a conventional inspection method. To investigate the behavior and length of mitral chordae tendineae during systole using 4D-CT. Eleven adults aged > 70 years without mitral valve disease were evaluated. A 64-slice CT scanner was used to capture 20 phases in the cardiac cycle in electrocardiographic synchronization. The length of the primary chordae tendineae was measured from early systole to early diastole using the 3D image. The primary chordae tendineae originating from the anterior papillary muscle and attached to the A1-2 region and those from the posterior papillary muscle and attached to the A2-3 region were designated as cA and cP, respectively. The behavior and maximum lengths [cA (ma), cP (max)] were compared, and the correlation with body surface area (BSA) was evaluated. In all cases, the mitral anterior leaflet chordae tendineae could be measured. In most cases, the cA and cP chordae tendineae could be measured visually. The mean cA (max) and cP (max) were 20.2 mm ± 1.95 mm and 23.5 mm ± 4.06 mm, respectively. cP (max) was significantly longer. The correlation coefficients (r) with BSA were 0.60 and 0.78 for cA (max) and cP (max), respectively. Both cA and cP exhibited constant variation in CL during systole, with a maximum 1.16-fold increase in cA and a 1.23-fold increase in cP from early to mid-systole. For cP, CL reached a plateau at 15% and remained elongated until end-systole, whereas for cA, after peaking at 15%, CL shortened slightly and then moved toward its peak again as end-systole approached. The study suggests that 4D-CT is a valuable tool for accurate measurement of both the length and behavior of chordae tendineae within the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve.

Absorbed dose, effective dose and lifetime attributable risk of breast and thyroid cancers in coronary CT angiography: A comparison between 64 and 128 slice CT scanners

The attentive consideration of absorbed dose impact on the breast, a radiosensitive organ, remains pivotal in coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Additionally, the thyroid is subjected to scatter radiation during this diagnostic procedure. The primary objective of this study was to comprehensively investigate and quantify the absorbed dose, effective dose, and lifetime attributable risks (LARs) associated with breast and thyroid cancers in the context of CCTA. This investigation enrolled a cohort of 180 patients (90 men and 90 women) who underwent CCTA utilizing three distinct CT scanners: the SOMATOM Definition AS 128 slice (Siemens 128), the Lightspeed VCT 64 Slice (GE 64), and the Brilliance 64 Slice (Philips 64). The precise quantification of absorbed doses to the breast and thyroid was achieved through the utilization of a thermoluminescence dosimeter (TLD). LAR for breast and thyroid cancers was evaluated in accordance with the BEIR VII report. Kruskal–Wallis test was employed to compare the means of absorbed doses and LARs. The average absorbed doses to the breast during CCTA with Siemens 128, GE 64, and Philips 64 scanners were 116.32 ± 39.02, 82.88 ± 18.33, and 84.11 ± 15.18 mGy, respectively (P < 0.05). Correspondingly, the average LAR for breast cancer was found to be 84, 68, and 52 cases per 100,000 persons, respectively. Notably, a significant discrepancy in breast cancer LARs was observed among different age groups (P < 0.05). Regarding thyroid doses with Siemens 128, GE 64, and Philips 64 scanners, average values were 11.82 ± 7.51, 12.20 ± 10.87, and 14.49 ± 5.43 mGy, respectively (P > 0.05). Additionally, the average LAR for thyroid cancer was determined as 0.32, 0.56, and 0.22 cases per 100,000 persons, respectively. Across all age groups, the LAR for thyroid cancer exhibited higher values among women compared to men. However, these differences did not achieve statistical significance (P > 0.05), indicating a need for further investigation. The findings prominently indicated high absorbed doses to the breast in CCTA using protocols investigated in this study (with an average of 93.7 ± 30.26 mGy). Particularly, the LAR for breast cancer was higher among younger women, specifically those aged between 20 and 40 years (249 cases per 100,000). These results underscore the necessity for further justification and optimization of CCTA protocols.

Forensic significance and inferential value of PMCT features in charred bodies: A bicentric study

Post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) is a diagnostic tool that provides essential information in forensic field. This radiological technique can play a pivotal role in personal identification, gunshot injuries, major traumatic injuries, child abuse, drowning asphyxia, embolism, COVID-19, sudden death, and charring cases.Post-mortem imaging can be used to investigate charred bodies as it allows the forensic examiner to distinguish traumatic and heat injuries. PMCT images can also provide additional information to determine whether the individual was alive at the time the fire started.In our bicentric study, we performed PMCT on 15 cases of charred bodies (10 males and 5 females) collected at the Florence University (Florence, Italy) and Catholic University of The Sacred Heart (Rome, Italy) before the external examination and/or full autopsy examination. In both the institutions, PMCT was performed through a Siemens SOMATOM 16-slice CT scanner (Siemens Aktiengesellschaft, Berlin, 2010).The aim of the current study was to obtain unambiguous information that could help determine the cause of death by comparing our PMCT findings with the most recent evidence in the scientific literature. Our investigations focused on the evaluation of bone texture and differences from traumatic fractures, leading also to an improvement in the interpretation of some aspecific findings (e.g., soot) from the integration of the radiological information with the autopsy results.The data obtained in our study support PMCT as a reliable diagnostic tool in the study of charred corpses and represent basic evidence for further applications of radiology in the forensic field.

State-of-the-art mobile head CT scanner delivers nearly the same image quality as a conventional stationary CT scanner

The use of mobile head CT scanners in the neurointensive care unit (NICU) saves time for patients and NICU staff and can reduce transport-related mishaps, but the reduced image quality of previous mobile scanners has prevented their widespread clinical use. This study compares the image quality of SOMATOM On.Site (Siemens Healthineers, Erlangen, Germany), a state-of-the-art mobile head CT scanner, and a conventional 64-slice stationary CT scanner. The study included 40 patients who underwent head scans with both mobile and stationary scanners. Gray and white matter signal and noise were measured at predefined locations on axial slices, and signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) were calculated. Artifacts below the cranial calvaria and in the posterior fossa were also measured. In addition, image quality was subjectively assessed by two radiologists in terms of corticomedullary differentiation, subcalvarial space, skull artifacts, and image noise. Quantitative measurements showed significantly higher image quality of the stationary CT scanner in terms of noise, SNR and CNR of gray and white matter. Artifacts measured in the posterior fossa were higher with the mobile CT scanner, but subcalvarial artifacts were comparable. Subjective image quality was rated similarly by two radiologists for both scanners in all domains except image noise, which was better for stationary CT scans. The image quality of the SOMATOM On.Site for brain scans is inferior to that of the conventional stationary scanner, but appears to be adequate for daily use in a clinical setting based on subjective ratings.

Comparison of Two Contemporary Quantitative Atherosclerotic Plaque Assessment Tools for Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography: Single-Center Analysis and Multi-Center Patient Cohort Validation.

Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) provides non-invasive quantitative assessments of plaque burden and composition. The quantitative assessment of plaque components requires the use of analysis software that provides reproducible semi-automated plaque detection and analysis. However, commercially available plaque analysis software can vary widely in the degree of automation, resulting in differences in terms of reproducibility and time spent. To compare the reproducibility and time spent of two CCTA analysis software tools using different algorithms for the quantitative assessment of coronary plaque volumes and composition in two independent patient cohorts. The study population included 100 patients from two different cohorts: 50 patients from a single-center (Siemens Healthineers, SOMATOM Force (DSCT)) and another 50 patients from a multi-center study (5 different > 64 slice CT scanner types). Quantitative measurements of total calcified and non-calcified plaque volume of the right coronary artery (RCA), left anterior descending (LAD), and left circumflex coronary artery (LCX) were performed on a total of 300 coronaries by two independent readers, using two different CCTA analysis software tools (Tool #1: Siemens Healthineers, syngo.via Frontier CT Coronary Plaque Analysis and Tool #2: Siemens Healthineers, successor CT Coronary Plaque Analysis prototype). In addition, the total time spent for the analysis was recorded with both programs. The patients in cohorts 1 and 2 were 62.8 ± 10.2 and 70.9 ± 11.7 years old, respectively, 10 (20.0%) and 35 (70.0%) were female and 34 (68.0%) and 20 (40.0%), respectively, had hyperlipidemia. In Cohort #1, the inter- and intra-observer variabilities for the assessment of plaque volumes per patient for Tool #1 versus Tool #2 were 22.8%, 22.0%, and 26.0% versus 2.3%, 3.9%, and 2.5% and 19.7%, 21.4%, and 22.1% versus 0.2%, 0.1%, and 0.3%, respectively, for total, noncalcified, and calcified lesions (p < 0.001 for all between Tools #1 and 2 both for inter- and intra-observer). The inter- and intra-observer variabilities using Tool #2 remained low at 2.9%, 2.7%, and 3.0% and 3.8%, 3.7%, and 4.0%, respectively, for total, non-calcified, and calcified lesions in Cohort #2. For each dataset, the median processing time was higher for Tool #1 versus Tool #2 (459.5 s IQR = 348.0-627.0 versus 208.5 s; IQR = 198.0-216.0) (p < 0.001). The plaque analysis Tool #2 (CT-guided PCI) encompassing a higher degree of automated support required less manual editing, was more time-efficient, and showed a higher intra- and inter-observer reproducibility for the quantitative assessment of plaque volumes both in a representative single-center and in a multi-center validation cohort.

Determination of water-equivalent diameter (Dw) and size-specific dose estimates (SSDE) for adult patients in abdominal CT examinations

This work aims to calculate size-specific dose estimates (SSDE) and establish the relationship between water equivalent diameter (Dw) values and SSDE in images of abdominal CT examinations undergone by 30 adult patients. These patients had a mean age of 51 years, a mean height of 164 cm, and a mean weight of 62.71 kg. The water equivalent diameters (Dw) measured 25.30 cm on average, with mean volumetric computed tomography dose index (CTDIvol) doses of 7.95 mGy and a mean SSDE of 11.31 mGy. Images were retrospectively collected using a Hitachi Supria 16-slice CT scanner, and Dw and SSDE values were calculated based on lateral and anteroposterior (LAT + AP) measurements of cross-sectional images from each CT examination. Dw was calculated from ED, and their close correspondence allowed for interchangeable use, following AAPM guidelines. The calculated doses (SSDE) were significantly higher than the doses displayed by the scanner (CTDI). Furthermore, a strong correlation (R2 = 0.63) was observed between SSDE and Dw. Consequently, assessing patient dose based on size becomes essential to optimize radiation exposure in CT imaging.

Assessment of the lung tissue fibrosis in workers exposed to silica-hazardous dust for a long time

Introduction. Silicosis is the most common and severe type of pneumoconiosis caused by inhalation of dust containing more than 10% of crystalline silica in the occupational setting. The chest X-ray plays a decisive role in the diagnosis of the disease.&#x0D; The purpose of our work was to establish lung tissue fibrosis in industrial workers suffering from silicosis.&#x0D; Materials and methods. In 2015–2022, ten patients with silicosis, employed at a Ural refractory manufacturing plant as press operators (Group 1) for the average of 17.23 ± 4.31 years, were examined at the Occupational Health Clinic of the Yekaterinburg Medical Research Center for Prophylaxis and Health Protection in Industrial Workers. The comparison group (Group 2) included 34 press operators without pneumoconiosis who had worked for more than 10 years in hazardous working conditions. The control group (Group 3) consisted of 32 people of different occupations unexposed to industrial dusts. All the subjects were matched by gender (male) and age (50.7 ± 5.25 years). Lung tissue fibrosis was measured by multislice computed tomography using a GE OPTIMA 660 128 Slice CT Scanner with accessories, GE HealthCare Japan, manufactured in 2012. The data were then analyzed in Statistica for Windows 7.&#x0D; Results. We established a decrease in tissue fibrosis in the apexes and inferior lobes of both lungs and an increase in the fibrosis in groups of target lymph nodes (11–14R, 2L, 10L) in the silicosis cases, and an increase in Hounsfield units in target groups of lymph nodes (2R, 4R, 10R, 11–14R, 2L, 11–14L) in the comparison group.&#x0D; Limitations. The study includes only workers engaged in refractory manufacturing with over 10 years of exposure to silica. For CT lung densitometry, the limitation is the permissible radiation dose of less than 5 mSv per year.&#x0D; Conclusion. The results of CT densitometry of the lungs and targeted groups of lymph nodes demonstrate its high efficiency in the quantitative assessment &#x0D; of dust-related disorders in patients with silicosis and in experienced workers occupationally exposed to crystalline silica.