Objective This study was performed to assess low-dose scan parameters in dual-energy computed tomography (CT) for displaying the anterior cruciate ligament. Methods Dual-energy CT scans with low and standard dose parameters, respectively, were performed in nine human knee joint specimens. Eighteen imaging data sets for cruciate ligament specimens were obtained and processed. Statistical analysis was performed for signal-to-noise ratios of the CT images and subjective scores. Results Comparable signal-to-noise ratios and subjective image quality scores by evaluators in dual-energy CT anterior cruciate ligament images between the low and standard-dose groups were observed. Conclusion Low-dose scan parameters do not compromise the outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament imaging.

Background Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is a common disease in clinical practice that seriously affects the daily life of patients. Purpose To explore the molecular imaging basis of “diminution sign on dual-energy colour mapping” for the diagnosis of ACL injury by dual-energy computed tomography (DECT). Material and Methods The hydroxylysine and hydroxyproline reagents were prepared in different concentrations. The grouping was shown as follows: a simple concentration change group of an amino acid (group 1/2); a mixed solution group with the concentration increasing synchronously (group 3); a mixed solution group with the concentration reverse increasing and decreasing (group 4); and a mixed solution group that fix one amino acid with increasing concentration of the other (group 5/6). The samples were scanned by DECT. The solution CT value and image signal-to-noise ratio were analyzed. Results In group 1/2, the brightness of the dual-energy color mapping of each test tube solution and the CT value increased with increasing the concentration of amino acid. In group 6, there was no significant change in the brightness and brilliance of the dual-energy color mapping and the CT value. The remaining three groups showed an increase in the brightness and brilliance of the dual-energy color mapping and the CT value, and this increase was positively associated with the hydroxylysine concentration. Conclusion The dual-energy staining of the DECT imaging in “tendon” mode is related to hydroxylysine and hydroxyproline. Moreover, the degree of dual-energy color mapping is positively correlated with the change of CT value.