Protocol optimization for abdominal imaging using photon-counting CT: a consensus of two academic institutions

Purpose: Photon-counting detector CT (PCD CT) is a promising technology for abdominal imaging due to its ability to provide high spatial and contrast resolution images with reduced patient radiation exposure. However, there is currently no consensus regarding the optimal imaging protocols for PCD CT. This article aims to present the PCD CT abdominal imaging protocols used by two tertiary care academic centers in the United States.

Methods: A review of PCD CT abdominal imaging protocols was conducted by two abdominal radiologists at different academic institutions. Protocols were compared in terms of acquisition parameters and reconstruction settings. Both imaging centers independently selected similar protocols for PCD CT abdominal imaging, using QuantumPlus mode.

Results: There were some differences in the use of reconstruction kernels and iterative reconstruction levels, however the individual combination at each site resulted in similar image impressions. Overall, the imaging protocols used by both centers provide high-quality images with low radiation exposure.

Conclusion: These findings provide valuable insights into the development of standardized protocols for PCD CT abdominal imaging, which can help to ensure consistent as well as high-quality imaging across different institutions and allow for future multicenter research collaborations.