Protocol analysis of dual-energy CT for optimization of kidney stone detection in virtual non-contrast reconstructions

ConclusionScan protocols in DE-CT with lower tube current and lower contrast medium attenuation show excellent results in VNC for stones larger than 2  mm but have limitations for small stones.Key Points• The detection rate of virtual non-contrast reconstructions is highly dependent on the surrounding contrast medium attenuation at the renal pelvis and should be kept as low as possible, as at an attenuation higher than 600 HU the VNC reconstructions are susceptible to masking ureteral stones.• Protocols with lower tube voltages (70 kV/Sn 150 kV and 80 kV/Sn 150 kV) improve the detection rate of kidney stones in VNC reconstructions.• The visibility of renal stones in virtual non-contrast of dual-energy CT is highly associated with the size, and results in a significantly lower detection rate in stones below 2 mm.
Source: European Radiology - Category: Radiology Source Type: research