title: Multispiral three-dimensional computed tomography in the investigation of craniosynostosis: technique optimization.
abstract: 21 infants with craniosynostosis were studied with a new three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) methodology. We describe technique optimization using multiple spiral data acquisitions with low dose (85 mAs) technique. One caudal volume of 3 mm slice thickness was obtained with a further two volumes of 1 mm slice thickness at the vertex. Image reconstruction of spiral raw data allowed overlapping 3 mm sections to be generated without the dose increase that would result from conventional axial CT scanning. We illustrate common technical artefacts of 3D CT and explain their cause and solution. A dramatic dose reduction to the lens was achieved with no loss in 3D image quality. Lens dose was 8.91 mSv compared with 24.6 mSv using the standard paediatric head technique.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK.
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Craven
authors.forename: K S
authors.initials: KS
authors.lastname: Naik
authors.forename: K S
authors.initials: KS
authors.lastname: Blanshard
authors.forename: A G
authors.initials: AG
authors.lastname: Batchelor
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Spencer
mesh_terms: D003398:Craniosynostoses / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D007223:Infant; D007908:Lens, Crystalline / Q000528:radiation effects; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*