Computed Tomography

Computed tomography (CT) is a fast and accurate imaging modality often used in emergency settings and trauma imaging. CT scans, with or without (or both) iodinated contrast are frequently used to image the brain, chest, abdomen and pelvis, but also have post-imaging reconstructive capabilities for detailed orthopedic imaging. It is now a standard imaging modality in emergency rooms to quickly assess patients. CT uses a series of X-ray images shot as the gantry rotates around the patient. Computer technology assembles these into into a dataset volume than can be slices on any access, or advanced visualization software can extract specific parts of the anatomy for study. Find more content specific to cardiac CT.

New publicly available deep learning model for CT organ segmentation in children shows promise
The model was developed and validated specifically for liver, spleen and pancreas segmentation, and outperformed a publicly available segmentation model already in use.
A significant amount of imaging orders in emergency settings are inappropriate
A general lack of awareness pertaining to ACR appropriateness criteria could be a driving factor behind the misguided requisitions, authors of a new analysis suggest.
AI improves CT assessments, boosts care for real-world heart patients
Automated AI-generated measurements combined with annotated CT images can improve treatment planning and help referring physicians and patients better understand their disease, explained Sarah Jane Rinehart, MD, director of cardiac imaging with Charleston Area Medical Center.
ChatGPT shows 'significant promise' in guiding contrast-related decisions
This could be especially helpful when timely clinical decisions relative to the use of a contrast agent need to be made.
Actionable tips imaging departments can implement to reduce energy consumption
With the earth’s warmest March on record in 175 years barely in the rearview mirror, a team of radiology experts says medical imaging must step up its sustainability efforts.

Simple, proven strategies to reduce extravasation of contrast media during CT scans

Though adverse events after subcutaneous extravasation of contrast media during CT scans are not common, serious complications can occur, experts report in Academic Radiology.

March 2, 2022

CT scan showing lung cancer nodules with measurements of each nodule to track growth or regression from treatment. Image courtesy of RSNA

ACR outlines changes in Medicare lung cancer screening coverage

The American College of Radiology recently released a detailed summary of the National Coverage Determination related to screening for lung cancer with low dose CT.

February 28, 2022

Deep learning-based reconstruction reduces pediatric CT dose by 54%, maintains image quality

Researchers used three different reconstruction techniques to compare how lower dose CT scans would impact image quality for pediatric patients.

February 25, 2022

Allergic reactions to iodinated CT contrast increase likelihood of sensitivity to GBCAs

Historically, sensitivity to iodinated contrast media was not a risk factor for adverse reactions to gadolinium-based contrast agents, experts explained this week in Radiology.

February 22, 2022

Automated CT scoring system accurately predicts prognosis in stroke patients

The study used non-contrast CT and CT perfusion imaging to analyze agreement between an automated reader and human radiologists with differing experience levels.

February 18, 2022

Short CT colonography reporting intervention improves radiologists' detection of cancer

Given the positive findings of the trial, most radiologists would likely support the move to require assessments and accreditation for CTC reporting, experts explained recently in Radiology.

February 16, 2022

CT-based radiomics features can help diagnose COPD earlier than ever before

Using radiomic features from chest CT images could be more beneficial than standard pulmonary function tests at diagnosis and severity staging of COPD, doctors suggested in Academic Radiology.

February 11, 2022

Rural outreach initiative produces significant increase in lung cancer screenings

Out of the patients who were eligible for LDCT, 88% followed through with their appointment, researchers reported in JACR.

February 7, 2022

Around the web

Cardiovascular Business

AI improves CT assessments, boosts care for real-world heart patients

Automated AI-generated measurements combined with annotated CT images can improve treatment planning and help referring physicians and patients better understand their disease, explained Sarah Jane Rinehart, MD, director of cardiac imaging with Charleston Area Medical Center.

Cardiovascular Business

AI predicts cardiovascular risk during CT scans—no invasive tests or contrast required

Two advanced algorithms—one for CAC scores and another for segmenting cardiac chamber volumes—outperformed radiologists when assessing low-dose chest CT scans.

Radiology Business

Google teams with Bayer to address radiologist burnout via AI

"Gen AI can help tackle repetitive tasks and provide insights into massive datasets, saving valuable time," Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, said Tuesday.