Inter-scan and inter-scanner variation of quantitative dual-energy CT: evaluation with three different scanner types

ConclusionsIodine measurements across different DECT scanners show inter-scan variation which is higher compared to variation of attenuation values. Inter-scanner differences in longitudinal variation and overall iodine concentration depend on the scanner pairs and organs assessed and should be acknowledged in clinical and scientific DECT applications.Key Points• All scanner types showed comparable inter-scan variation of attenuation, while for iodine, the rapid kV switching DECT showed lower variability in the liver and spleen.• Iodine concentration showed higher inter-scan variation than attenuation measurements; normalization to vessels did not significantly improve inter-scan reproducibility of iodine concentration in parenchymal organs.• Differences between the three scanner types regarding overall iodine concentration and attenuation obtained from both timepoints were within the range of average intra-patient, inter-scan differences for most assessed organs and vessels.
Source: European Radiology - Category: Radiology Source Type: research