Whole-body CT screening: scan delay and contrast injection duration for optimal enhancement of abdominal organs and deep vessels

Clin Imaging. 2014 Mar-Apr;38(2):129-35. doi: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2013.11.016. Epub 2013 Dec 2.

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the optimal scan delays and contrast injection durations for contrast-enhanced whole-body computed tomography (CT).

Materials and methods: One hundred forty-two patients were randomized into three groups: protocol A-scan delay of 65 s after starting contrast injection over 30 s; protocol B-105 and 70 s; and protocol C-145 and 110 s, respectively. Contrast enhancement and diagnostic acceptability were assessed.

Results: Qualitative assessment was subtle among the three protocols. Homogenous enhancement of deep veins was more assuredly achieved with protocol C.

Conclusion: With protocol C, qualitatively acceptable enhancement can be obtained in whole-body CT.

Keywords: Abdominal organ; Contrast injection duration; Contrast-enhanced CT; Optimal enhancement; Scan delay.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Injections, Intravenous*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Observer Variation
  • Phlebography / methods*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Radiography, Abdominal / methods
  • Time Factors
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
  • Veins / pathology
  • Whole Body Imaging*

Substances

  • Contrast Media