Advanced Neuroimaging With Photon-Counting Detector CT

This study introduces an application of innovative medical technology, Photon Counting Computer Tomography (PC CT) with novel detectors, for the assessment of shunt valves. PC CT technology offers enhanced visualization capabilities, especially for small structures, and opens up new possibilities for detailed three-dimensional imaging. Shunt valves are implanted under the skin and redirect excess cerebrospinal fluid, for example, to the abdominal cavity through a catheter. They play a vital role in regulating cerebrospinal fluid drainage in various pathologies, which can lead to hydrocephalus. Accurate imaging of shunt valves is essential to assess the rate of drainage, as their precise adjustment is a requirement for optimal patient care. This study focused on two adjustable shunt valves, the proGAV 2.0® and M. blue® (manufactured by Miethke, Potsdam, Germany). A comprehensive comparative analysis of PC CT and traditional X-ray techniques was conducted to explore this cutting-edge technology and it demonstrated that routine PC CT can efficiently assess shunt valves’ adjustments. This technology shows promise in enhancing the accurate management of shunt valves used in settings where head scans are already frequently required, such as in the treatment of hydrocephalus.

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Three-Dimensional Visualization of Shunt Valves with Photon Counting CT and Comparison to Traditional X-ray in a Simple Phantom Model

Klempka,

Clausen,

Soltane

et al. 2024

“…In recent years, the field of medical imaging has witnessed a transformative breakthrough in the form of photon-counting computed tomography (PC CT), which has the potential to address the challenging imaging of small anatomical structures [ 6 , 7 , 8 ]. The distinctions of this technology lie in the signal processing and offer several advantages in imaging, including higher spatial resolution at the level of 0.2 mm.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Photon Counting Computed Tomography for Accurate Cribriform Plate (Lamina Cribrosa) Imaging in Adult Patients

Klempka,

Ackermann,

Clausen

et al. 2024

Detailed visualization of the cribriform plate is challenging due to its intricate structure. This study investigates how computed tomography (CT) with a novel photon counting (PC) detector enhance cribriform plate visualization compared to traditionally used energy-integrated detectors in patients. A total of 40 patients were included in a retrospective analysis, with half of them undergoing PC CT (Naeotom Alpha Siemens Healthineers, Forchheim, Germany) and the other half undergoing CT scans using an energy-integrated detector (Somatom Sensation 64, Siemens, Forchheim, Germany) in which the cribriform plate was visualized with a temporal bone protocol. Both groups of scans were evaluated for signal-to-noise ratio, radiation dose, the imaging quality of the whole scan overall, and, separately, the cribriform plate and the clarity of volume rendering reconstructions. Two independent observers conducted a qualitative analysis using a Likert scale. The results consistently demonstrated excellent imaging of the cribriform plate with the PC CT scanner, surpassing traditional technology. The visualization provided by PC CT allowed for precise anatomical assessment of the cribriform plate on multiplanar reconstructions and volume rendering imaging with reduced radiation dose (by approximately 50% per slice) and higher signal-to-noise ratio (by approximately 75%). In conclusion, photon-counting technology provides the possibility of better imaging of the cribriform plate in adult patients. This enhanced imaging could be utilized in skull base-associated pathologies, such as cerebrospinal fluid leaks, to visualize them more reliably for precise treatment.

“…Many reviews describe the technical potential of the improved iodine contrast-to-noise ratio or improved spatial resolution as promising for more applications. Spectral imaging grants even more space for future potential developments [1][2][3].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Advanced Imaging of Shunt Valves in Cranial CT Scans with Photon-Counting Scanner

Klempka,

Ackermann,

Brehmer

et al. 2024

This brief report aimed to show the utility of photon-counting technology alongside standard cranial imaging protocols for visualizing shunt valves in a patient’s cranial computed tomography scan. Photon-counting CT scans with cranial protocols were retrospectively surveyed and four types of shunt valves were encountered: proGAV 2.0®, M.blue®, Codman Certas®, and proSA®. These scans were compared with those obtained from non-photon-counting scanners at different time points for the same patients. The analysis of these findings demonstrated the usefulness of photon-counting technology for the clear and precise visualization of shunt valves without any additional radiation or special reconstruction patterns. The enhanced utility of photon-counting is highlighted by providing superior spatial resolution compared to other CT detectors. This technology facilitates a more accurate characterization of shunt valves and may support the detection of subtle abnormalities and a precise assessment of shunt valves.