CARE kV Research Articles

SU-E-I-29: Care KV: Dose It Influence Radiation Dose in Non-Contrast Examination of CT Abdomen/pelvis?

Purpose: CARE kV is a tool that automatically recommends optimal kV setting for individual patient for specific CT examination. The use of CARE kV depends on topogram and the user-selected contrast behavior. CARE kV is expected to reduce radiation dose while improving image quality. However, this may work only for certain groups of patients and/or certain CT examinations. This study is to investigate the effects of CARE kV on radiation dose of non-contrast examination of CT abdomen/pelvis. Methods: Radiation dose (CTDIvol and DLP) from patients who underwent abdomen/pelvis non-contrast examination with and without CARE kV were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were scanned in the same scanner (Siemens Somatom AS64). To mitigate any possible influences due to technologists’ unfamiliarity with the CARE kV, the data with CARE kV were retrieved 1.5 years after the start of CARE kV usage. T-test was used for significant difference in radiation dose. Results: Volume CTDIs and DLPs from 18 patients before and 24 patients after the use of CARE kV were obtained in a duration of one month. There is a slight increase in both average CTDIvol and average DLP with CARE kV compared to those without CARE kV (25.52 mGy vs. 22.65 mGy formore » CTDIvol; 1265.81 mGy-cm vs. 1199.19 mGy-cm). Statistically there was no significant difference. Without CARE kV, 140 kV was used in 9 of 18 patients, while with CARE KV, 140 kV was used in 15 of 24 patients. 80kV was not used in either group. Conclusion: The use of CARE kV may save time for protocol optimization and minimize variability among technologists. Radiation dose reduction was not observed in non-contrast examinations of CT abdomen/pelvis. This was partially because our CT protocols were tailored according to patient size before CARE kV and partially because of large size patients.« less

Effect of reference mAs in CARE kV technique on image quality and radiation dose in unenhanced chest CT

Objective To evaluate the effect of reference mAs on radiation dose and image quality characteristics of chest CT scanned with CARE kV technique compared with CARE Dose4D. Methods According to the date of examination,158 consecutive patients were selected in our department and randomly divided into 5 groups: CARE Dose4D group (30 cases, group 1); using CARE kV technology, reference mAs were 110 (32 cases), 90 (31 cases), 70 (33 cases), 50 (32 cases), which were recorded asthe group from 2 to 5, respectively. Volume CT dose index (CTDIvol), dose length product (DLP) and the effective dose (ED) were analyzed. CT value and objective image noise were measured in the lungparenchyma and descending aorta.Two radiologists assessed the images for subjective noise, artefacts and diagnostic acceptability.The radiation dose, CT value and objective noise were compared with the analysis of variance, and the difference between two groups was compared with SNK test; the rank sum tests (Kruskal-Wallis) were used in subjective image quality score, and difference between two groups was compared with K-W test. Results The CTDIvol, DLP, ED values in five groups were(7.7±1.7),(7.7±2.0), (5.5±1.4), (4.2±1.5), (2.8±1.2)mGy, (290.7±67.4) , (290.1±85.2) , (194.2±52.1) , (150.7±63.8) , (96.5±38.9) mGy·cm, (4.1±0.9) , (4.1±1.2) , (2.7±0.7) , (2.1±0.9) , (1.3±0.5) mSv, respectively.There were significant difference among the 5 groups(F=59.305, 57.76, 57.76, P 0.05). The objective noise of 5 groups in pulmonary parenchyma and the descending aorta were (48.7±9.1) , (49.2±10.0) , (55.5±11.2) , (56.5±8.3) , (63.7±13.2) HU; (9.2±1.6) , (9.5 ± 2.1) , (10.7 ± 2.6) , (11.6 ± 2.7) , (13.6 ± 2.6) HU respectively, and the difference was significant(F= 10.774, 17.157, P 0.05). Conclusion Comparedwith CARE Dose4D, the use of CARE kV technique of suitable reference mAs for unenhanced chest CT can reduce radiation dose significantly with diagnostically acceptable image quality. Key words: Tomography, X-ray computed; Radiation dosage

Attenuation-based automatic kilovoltage selection and sinogram-affirmed iterative reconstruction: effects on radiation exposure and image quality of portal-phase liver CT.

ObjectiveTo compare the radiation dose and image quality between standard-dose CT and a low-dose CT obtained with the combined use of an attenuation-based automatic kilovoltage (kV) selection tool (CARE kV) and sinogram-affirmed iterative reconstruction (SAFIRE) for contrast-enhanced CT examination of the liver.Materials and MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 67 patients with chronic liver disease in whom both, standard-dose CT with 64-slice multidetector-row CT (MDCT) (protocol A), and low-dose CT with 128-slice MDCT using CARE kV and SAFIRE (protocol B) were performed. Images from protocol B during the portal phase were reconstructed using either filtered back projection or SAFIRE with 5 different iterative reconstruction (IR) strengths. We performed qualitative and quantitative analyses to select the appropriate IR strength. Reconstructed images were then qualitatively and quantitatively compared with protocol A images.ResultsQualitative and quantitative analysis of protocol B demonstrated that SAFIRE level 2 (S2) was most appropriate in our study. Qualitative and quantitative analysis comparing S2 images from protocol B with images from protocol A, showed overall good diagnostic confidence of S2 images despite a significant radiation dose reduction (47% dose reduction, p < 0.001).ConclusionCombined use of CARE kV and SAFIRE allowed significant reduction in radiation exposure while maintaining image quality in contrast-enhanced liver CT.

Clinical application of high-pitch excretory phase images during dual-source CT urography with stellar photon detector

To retrospectively evaluate the clinical feasibility of high-pitch excretory phase images during dual-source CT urography with Stellar photon detector. Totally 100 patients received dual-source CT high-pitch urinary excretory phase scanning with Stellar photon detector [80 kV, ref.92 mAs, CARE Dose 4D and CARE kV, pitch of 3.0, filter back projection reconstruction algorithm (FBP)] (group A). Another 100 patients received dual-source CT high-pitch urinary excretory phase scanning with common detector(100 kV, ref.140 mAs, CARE Dose 4D, pitch of 3.0, FBP) (group B). Quantitative measurement of CT value of urinary segments (Hounsfield units), image noise (Hounsfield units), and effective radiation dose (millisievert) were compared using independent-samples t test between two groups. Urinary system subjective opacification scores were compared using Mann-Whitney U test between two groups. There was no significant difference in subjective opacification score of intrarenal collecting system and ureters between two groups (all P>0.05). The group A images yielded significantly higher CT values of all urinary segments (all P<0.01). There was no significant difference in image noise (P>0.05). The effective radiation dose of group A (1.1 mSv) was significantly lower than that of group B (3.79 mSv) (P<0.01). High-pitch low-tube-voltage during excretory phase dual-source CT urography with Stellar photon detector is feasible, with acceptable image noise and lower radiation dose.

전산화 단층검사 시 Bismuth와 CARE kV System을 이용한 선량 저감화에 대한 연구

본 논문에서는 전산화 단층검사 시 방사선 투과 물질로 방사선량을 흡수하여 피폭 선량을 감소시키는 물질로 알려진 차폐용 Bismuth(비스무스)와 CARE kV(Automated Dose-Optimized Selection of X-ray Tube Voltage)을 사용하여 유용성을 평가하였다. 방사선 감수성이 높은 기관인 수정체(안와), 갑상선, 가슴(유방), 생식기의 선량 감소 효과와 각 기관의 심부선량 차폐 효과를 평가하기 위해 Rando Phantom과 유리 선량계를 이용하여 Bismuth 사용 전 후와, CARE kV의 적용에 따른 선량 감소 효과를 비교해 보았다. 그 결과, 뇌혈관 검사 시 CARE kV을 단독 설정한 검사 방법의 선량이 가장 적었으며, CARE kV 사용여부에 따라 63%의 선량 감소 효과가 있었다. 경동맥 검사 시 CARE kV+Bismuth의 설정 방법에서 선량이 13% 증가하였다. 심혈관 검사 시 CARE kV+Bismuth의 설정 방법이 31% 선량 감소 효과가 있었다. 하지 혈관 검사 시 Bismuth 전체의 설정 방법이 가장 선량이 적게 측정되었지만, 영상 평가 기준에 부적합 하였다. CARE kV을 설정한 검사 방법과는 약 9%의 선량 감소 효과가 있었다. The purpose of this study is to compare the reduction of the dose radioactivity by CARE kV with that of the Bismuth shielding. First, CT was performed with transparent materials, including a Bismuth shielder which is a well-known material for decreasing the dose of radiation. Moreover, we have estimated and compared the affects of the reduction of dose on eye lens, thyroid, breast and genitals. These steps aim to compare reactions with and without the application of the Rando phantom with PLD as well as with CARE kV or not. As a result, during the Brain angio scan, the dose of CARE kV set inspection test methods showed the least dose. Depending on whether we use CARE kV, which showed the effect of dose reduction by 63%. During the Carotid angio scan, the dose was increased by 13% by how to set CARE kV+Bismuth. During the Cardiac angio scan, which showed the effect of dose reduction by 31% by how to set CARE kV+Bismuth. During the Lower extremity angio scan, the dose was measured least by how to set up the whole Bismuth. Compared with CARE kV set of test methods, which showed the effect of dose reduction by 9%.

Feasible Dose Reduction in Routine Chest Computed Tomography Maintaining Constant Image Quality Using the Last Three Scanner Generations: From Filtered Back Projection to Sinogram-affirmed Iterative Reconstruction and Impact of the Novel Fully Integrated Detector Design Minimizing Electronic Noise.

Objective:The aim of the present study was to evaluate a dose reduction in contrast-enhanced chest computed tomography (CT) by comparing the three latest generations of Siemens CT scanners used in clinical practice. We analyzed the amount of radiation used with filtered back projection (FBP) and an iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithm to yield the same image quality. Furthermore, the influence on the radiation dose of the most recent integrated circuit detector (ICD; Stellar detector, Siemens Healthcare, Erlangen, Germany) was investigated.Materials and Methods:136 Patients were included. Scan parameters were set to a thorax routine: SOMATOM Sensation 64 (FBP), SOMATOM Definition Flash (IR), and SOMATOM Definition Edge (ICD and IR). Tube current was set constantly to the reference level of 100 mA automated tube current modulation using reference milliamperes. Care kV was used on the Flash and Edge scanner, while tube potential was individually selected between 100 and 140 kVp by the medical technologists at the SOMATOM Sensation. Quality assessment was performed on soft-tissue kernel reconstruction. Dose was represented by the dose length product.Results:Dose-length product (DLP) with FBP for the average chest CT was 308 mGy*cm ± 99.6. In contrast, the DLP for the chest CT with IR algorithm was 196.8 mGy*cm ± 68.8 (P = 0.0001). Further decline in dose can be noted with IR and the ICD: DLP: 166.4 mGy*cm ± 54.5 (P = 0.033). The dose reduction compared to FBP was 36.1% with IR and 45.6% with IR/ICD. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was favorable in the aorta, bone, and soft tissue for IR/ICD in combination compared to FBP (the P values ranged from 0.003 to 0.048). Overall contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) improved with declining DLP.Conclusion:The most recent technical developments, namely IR in combination with integrated circuit detectors, can significantly lower radiation dose in chest CT examinations.

TU‐PIS‐Exhibit Hall‐01: CT Dose Optimization Technologies II

Partners in Solutions is an exciting new program in which AAPM partners with our vendors to present practical “hands‐on” information about the equipment and software systems that we use in our clinics. The imaging topic this year is CT scanner dose optimization capabilities. Note that the sessions are being held in a special purpose room built on the Exhibit Hall Floor, to encourage further interaction with the vendors.Siemens‘ Commitment to the Right Dose in Computed Tomography Presentation Time: 11:15 – 11:45 AMProviding sustainable clinical results at highest patient safety: This is the challenge in medical imaging. Especially for Computed Tomography this means applying not simply the lowest, but the right dose for sound diagnostic imaging. Consequently, Siemens is committed to deliver the right dose in CT.In order to reduce radiation to the right dose, the first step is to provide the right dose technology. Through decades of research and development in CT imaging, Siemens CT has constantly introduced new ideas leading to a comprehensive portfolio of unique CARE technologies to deliver the right dose. For example automated kV adjustment based on patient size and the clinical question with CARE kV and three generations of iterative reconstruction.Based on the right dose technology, the next step is to actually scan at the right dose. For this, it is key to know the right dose targets for every examination. Siemens continuously involves CT experts to push developments further and outline how users can best adapt their procedures to the right dose. For users to know whether they met the right dose targets, it is therefore important to understand and monitor the actual absolute dose values. All scanners are delivered with defined default protocols which automatically use the available right dose technologies.Finally, to deliver the right dose not just in singular cases, but ideally to patients everywhere, organizations need then to manage dose across their institutions. Here Siemens offers the right dose management tools for administrations to analyze and document dose, to train their clinical staff and to continuously optimize the application of the right dose in clinical routine.Siemens CT is not only adhering to the ALARA principle, but is inspired by it.With CARE Right Siemens show their commitment to the right dose in CT.Toshiba Aquilion CT Dose Management ToolsPresentation Time: 11:45 – 12:15 PMA practical review of Toshiba’s CT dose management technologies from the physicist’s perspective. This presentation will include an overview of Toshiba’s CT dose reduction technologies and dose safeguards. Content will include answers to frequently asked questions relating to dose management, dose tracking, CTDI measurement, ACR accreditation, ACR QC, and protocol review on Toshiba CT systems.Specific topics will include the following: Toshiba’s mechanism of tube current modulation; Exposure record format and interpretation of the values; Dose reporting and dose safeguard tools; Use of AIDR 3D iterative reconstruction; The configuration of task specific image quality target and its integration with AIDR 3D; Tips for scanning the ACR phantom with wide beam geometry; Measuring CTDI for wide beam geometry; Discussion of daily QC procedures and specifications; Tips for annual QC evaluation; Protocol management tools

Clinical evaluation of automatic tube voltage selection in chest CT angiography

To evaluate the clinical impact of automatic tube voltage selection on chest CT angiography (CTA). Ninety-three patients were prospectively evaluated with a CT protocol aimed at comparing two successive CTAs acquired under similar technical conditions except for the kV selection: (1) the initial CTA was systematically obtained at 120 kVp and 90 ref mAs; (2) the follow-up CTA was obtained with an automatic selection of the kilovoltage (Care KV; Siemens Healthcare) for optimised CTA. At follow-up, 90 patients (97 %) underwent CTA with reduced tube voltage, 100 kV (n = 26; 28 %) and 80 kV (n = 64; 69 %), resulting in a significant dose-length-product reduction (follow-up: 87.27; initial: 141.88 mGy.cm; P < 0.0001; mean dose reduction: 38.5 %) and a significant increase in the CNR at follow-up (follow-up: 11.5 ± 3.5 HU; initial: 10.9 ± 3.7 HU; P = 0.03). The increase in objective image noise at follow-up (follow-up: 23.2 ± 6.7 HU vs. 17.8 ± 5.1 HU; P < 0.0001) did not alter the diagnostic value of images. Automatic tube voltage selection reduced the radiation dose delivered during chest CT angiograms by 38.5 % while improving the contrast-to-noise ratio of the examinations. • As low a dose as possible must be used for CT angiography. • Automatic tube voltage selection permits reduced patient exposure. • Lowering the kVp enables increased intravascular attenuation. • Automatic tube voltage selection does not compromise the overall image quality.

Radiation Dose Reduction via Sinogram Affirmed Iterative Reconstruction and Automatic Tube Voltage Modulation (CARE kV) in Abdominal CT

ObjectiveTo evaluate the feasibility of sinogram-affirmed iterative reconstruction (SAFIRE) and automated kV modulation (CARE kV) in reducing radiation dose without increasing image noise for abdominal CT examination.Materials and MethodsThis retrospective study included 77 patients who received CT imaging with an application of CARE kV with or without SAFIRE and who had comparable previous CT images obtained without CARE kV or SAFIRE, using the standard dose (i.e., reference mAs of 240) on an identical CT scanner and reconstructed with filtered back projection (FBP) within 1 year. Patients were divided into two groups: group A (33 patients, CT scanned with CARE kV); and group B (44 patients, scanned after reducing the reference mAs from 240 to 170 and applying both CARE kV and SAFIRE). CT number, image noise for four organs and radiation dose were compared among the two groups.ResultsImage noise increased after CARE kV application (p < 0.001) and significantly decreased as SAFIRE strength increased (p < 0.001). Image noise with reduced-mAs scan (170 mAs) in group B became similar to that of standard-dose FBP images after applying CARE kV and SAFIRE strengths of 3 or 4 when measured in the aorta, liver or muscle (p ≥ 0.108). Effective doses decreased by 19.4% and 41.3% for groups A and B, respectively (all, p < 0.001) after application of CARE kV with or without SAFIRE.ConclusionCombining CARE kV, reduction of mAs from 240 to 170 mAs and noise reduction by applying SAFIRE strength 3 or 4 reduced the radiation dose by 41.3% without increasing image noise compared with the standard-dose FBP images.