Neuroimaging clinics of North America
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2017
ReviewAdvanced Tissue Characterization and Texture Analysis Using Dual-Energy Computed Tomography: Horizons and Emerging Applications.
In the last article of this issue, advanced analysis capabilities of DECT is reviewed, including spectral Hounsfield unit attenuation curves, virtual monochromatic images, material decomposition maps, tissue effective Z determination, and other advanced post-processing DECT tools, followed by different methods of analysis of the attenuation curves generated using DECT. The article concludes with exciting future horizons and potential applications, such as the use of the rich quantitative data in dual energy CT scans for texture or radiomic analysis and the use of machine learning methods for generation of prediction models using spectral data.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2017
ReviewApplications of Dual-Energy Computed Tomography for Artifact Reduction in the Head, Neck, and Spine.
Conventional computed tomography (CT) uses a polychromatic energy beam to offer superb anatomic detail of the head and spine. However, technical challenges remain that can degrade the diagnostic image quality of these examinations. Dual-energy CT analyzes the changes in attenuation of soft tissues at different energy levels, from which different reconstructions can be made to yield the optimal contrast-to-noise ratio, reduce beam-hardening artifact, or evaluate tissue composition. In this article, selective applications of the dual energy CT technique are discussed, highlighting a powerful tool in the diagnostic CT evaluation of the head, neck, and spine.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2017
ReviewMiscellaneous and Emerging Applications of Dual-Energy Computed Tomography for the Evaluation of Pathologies in the Head and Neck.
Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) and its specific algorithms and applications have been increasingly recognized in clinical practice as a valuable advance in technology beyond what is possible with the established postprocessing capabilities of single-energy multidetector computed tomography, mainly because of its potential benefits regarding image quality and contrast. DECT may represent an alternative approach to purely attenuation-based imaging of the head and neck, because it provides a material-specific visualization based on spectral information. With this approach, owing to its physical properties, iodine can be assessed as a potential "biological tracer" to improve depiction of tumor conspicuity and grade of invasion.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2017
ReviewDual-Energy Computed Tomographic Applications for Differentiation of Intracranial Hemorrhage, Calcium, and Iodine.
This article reviews the physical principles of dual-energy material decomposition and its current implementation. Clinical applications of dual-energy material decomposition including differentiation of calcification from hemorrhage and iodinated contrast from hemorrhage are highlighted, and their applications to neuroimaging are reviewed.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Aug 2017
ReviewDual-Energy Computed Tomography Angiography of the Head and Neck and Related Applications.
Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) has become an increasingly widespread and useful component of the neuroimaging armamentarium, offering automated bone removal, metallic artifact reduction, and improved characterization of iodinated contrast enhancement. The application of these techniques to CT neuroangiography enables a number of benefits including more efficient 3D post-processing, contrast dose reduction opportunities, successful differentiation of hemorrhage from contrast staining following thromboembolic recanalization therapy, improved detection of active contrast extravasation in the setting of intracranial hemorrhage, and more precise characterization of atheromatous steno-occlusive disease.