Dual-energy and low-kVp CT in the abdomen.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this article is to discuss the influence of tube potential on CT images and explore the potential impact of dual-energy CT on imaging of the abdomen and pelvis.


CONCLUSIONS
Low peak tube voltage (kVp) settings provide high conspicuity of contrast materials at CT but may result in high image noise, particularly in larger patients. Material decomposition at dual-energy CT can differentiate renal stones by their composition, quantify tissue iron stores, improve the detection of pathologic hyperenhancement, and reduce contrast material and radiation dose compared with conventional CT. Further clinical research and technique refinement will be needed as the usage of these exciting technologies spreads.
Yeh
Benjamin M
BM
Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, Box 0628, M-372, 505 Parnassus Ave., San Francisco, CA 94143-0628, USA. ben.yeh@radiology.ucsf.edu
Shepherd
John A
JA
Wang
Zhen J
ZJ
Teh
Hui Seong
HS
Hartman
Robert P
RP
Prevrhal
Sven
S
D006801:Humans; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods*; D011860:Radiography, Abdominal / Q000379:methods*; D015900:Radiography, Dual-Energy Scanned Projection / Q000379:methods*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*