Multiplanar reconstructions of the thoracic spine in a photon counting dual-source CT scanner: comparison to EID-CT

Abstract

Background Photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT) is a groundbreaking technology with promising results for visualization of small bone structures. Purpose To analyze the delineation of the thoracic spine in multiplanar reconstructions (MPR) on PCD-CT compared to energy-integrating detector (EID)-CT. Material and Methods Two euthanized mice were examined using different scanners: (i) 20-slice EID-CT and (ii) dual-source PCD-CT at various CTDIVol values. Readers evaluated the thoracic spine and selected series with best visualization among signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)-matched pairs. Results SNR was significantly higher in PCD-CT reconstructions (Br68) and lower in Hr98 reconstructions compared to EID-CT. Bone detail visualization was superior in PCD-CT (especially in Hr98 reconstructions) compared to EID-CT. Conclusion MPR on a PCD-CT had a higher SNR and better bone detail visualization even at lower radiation doses compared to EID-CT. PCD-CT with bone reconstructions showed the best delineation of small bone structures and might be considered in clinical routine.