Integrated PET/CT in lung cancer imaging: history and technical aspects.
Integrated PET/CT is a new anatomo-metabolic imaging modality combining two different techniques: Computed Tomography (CT) that provides very detailed anatomic information and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) that provides metabolic information. Integrated PET/CT has several advantages. One of the advantages is the use of CT data for attenuation correction that is significantly faster compared to that in conventional PET systems. Due to the use of CT data for attenuation correction, artefacts can be generated on PET images related to the use of intravenous or oral CT contrast agents, CT beam-hardening artefacts due to metallic implants and motion artefacts (respiratory motion, physical bowel motion, cardiac motion). The purpose of this review is to discuss some technical considerations concerning the CT protocol that can be used for PET/CT in lung cancer imaging and to give a short overview of the initial results of staging of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
De Wever
W
W
Department of Radiology, University Hospitals Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium. Walter.dewever@uz.kuleuven.ac.be
Stroobants
S
S
Verschakelen
J A
JA
D003287:Contrast Media; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049674:History, 21st Century; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014055:Tomography, Emission-Computed / Q000266:history / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000266:history / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*
D003287:Contrast Media