[Diagnostic evaluation of the craniocervical vascular system with a 16-slice multi-detector row spiral CT. Protocols and first experiences].
OBJECTIVE
The newly developed 16-slice multi detector row computed tomography (MDCT) allows for isotropic imaging at rotation times under 500 ms. We aim to describe our first experiences with this novel technology in the diagnostic imaging of the craniocervical vascular system.


METHODS
The craniocervical vascular system of 8 consecutive patients was examined with a standardized protocol with the new 16-slice MDCT. The volume covered included the carotid arteries from their origin at the aortic arch and the intracranial arterial and venous vessels in their entirety. Homogeneity of contrast, contrast-to-parenchyma ratios, image quality and radiation doses were assessed.


RESULTS
A homogeneous vessel-to-parenchyma ratio was reached in the carotids as well as in the intracranial arterial and venous vessels. Image quality was rated as excellent in all patients. The estimated mean effective radiation dose amounted to 2.31 mSv +/-0.57, the mean dose length product to 608 mGy*cm +/-151.


CONCLUSIONS
The newly developed 16-slice MDCT technology appears to be a promising tool in the diagnostic assessment of the cervicocranial vessels.
Ertl-Wagner
B
B
Institut für Klinische Radiologie, Klinikum der Universität München, Grosshadern, Germany. B.Ertl-Wagner@t-online.de
Hoffmann
R-T
RT
Brüning
R
R
Dichgans
M
M
Reiser
M F
MF
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017546:Angioscopy / Q000379:methods; D001013:Aorta, Thoracic / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D001921:Brain / Q000098:blood supply*; D002340:Carotid Artery Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D002533:Cerebral Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D036542:Tomography, Spiral Computed / Q000379:methods*; D014584:User-Computer Interface