Dual-source computed tomography: advances of improved temporal resolution in coronary plaque imaging.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to quantify image quality gains of a moving coronary plaque phantom using dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) providing 83 milliseconds temporal resolution in direct comparison to 64 slice single-source multidetector CT (MDCT) with a temporal resolution of 165 milliseconds.


METHODS
Three cardiac vessel phantoms with fixed 50% stenosis and changing plaque configurations were mounted on a moving device simulating cardiac motion. Scans were performed at a simulated heart frequency of 60 to 120 bpm. Image quality assessment was performed in different anatomic orientations inside a thoracic phantom.


RESULTS
A significant improvement of image quality using the DSCT could be found (P=0.0002). Relevant factors influencing image quality aside from frequency (P=0.0002) are plaque composition (P<0.0001), as well as orientation (P<0.0001).


CONCLUSIONS
Scanning with 83 milliseconds temporal resolution improved image quality of coronary plaque at higher heart frequencies.
Reimann
Anja J
AJ
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Eberhard-Karls-University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany. anja.reimann@med.uni-tuebingen.de
Rinck
Daniel
D
Birinci-Aydogan
Ayser
A
Scheuering
Michael
M
Burgstahler
Christof
C
Schroeder
Stephen
S
Brodoefel
Harald
H
Tsiflikas
Ilias
I
Herberts
Tina
T
Flohr
Thomas
T
Claussen
Claus D
CD
Kopp
Andreas F
AF
Heuschmid
Martin
M
D000465:Algorithms; D017023:Coronary Angiography / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D003324:Coronary Artery Disease / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D019047:Phantoms, Imaging; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement; D013997:Time Factors; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods