Dataset Information

Image quality and pathology assessment in CT Urography: when is the low-dose series sufficient?

ABSTRACT:

Background

Our aim was to compare CT images from native, nephrographic and excretory phases using image quality criteria as well as the detection of positive pathological findings in CT Urography, to explore if the radiation burden to the younger group of patients or patients with negative outcomes can be reduced.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of 40 patients who underwent a CT Urography examination on a 192-slice dual source scanner. Image quality was assessed for four specific renal image criteria from the European guidelines, together with pathological assessment in three categories: renal, other abdominal, and incidental findings without clinical significance. Each phase was assessed individually by three radiologists with varying experience using a graded scale. Certainty scores were derived based on the graded assessments. Statistical analysis was performed using visual grading regression (VGR). The limit for significance was set at p?=?0.05.

Results

For visual reproduction of the renal parenchyma and renal arteries, the image quality was judged better for the nephrogram phase (p?ConclusionVisualisation of renal anatomy was as expected with each post-contrast phase showing favourable scores compared to the native phase. No statistically significant differences in the assessment of pathology were found between the three phases. The low-dose CT (LDCT) seems to be sufficient in differentiating between normal and pathological examinations. To reduce the radiation burden in certain patient groups, the LDCT could be considered a suitable alternative as a first line imaging method. However, radiologists should be aware of its limitations.

SUBMITTER: Kataria B

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6688276 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Publications

Image quality and pathology assessment in CT Urography: when is the low-dose series sufficient?

Kataria Bharti B Nilsson Althén Jonas J Smedby Örjan Ö Persson Anders A Sökjer Hannibal H Sandborg Michael M

BMC medical imaging 20190809 1

<h4>Background</h4>Our aim was to compare CT images from native, nephrographic and excretory phases using image quality criteria as well as the detection of positive pathological findings in CT Urography, to explore if the radiation burden to the younger group of patients or patients with negative outcomes can be reduced.<h4>Methods</h4>This is a retrospective study of 40 patients who underwent a CT Urography examination on a 192-slice dual source scanner. Image quality was assessed for four spe ...[more]

PMID: 31399078

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Dataset Information

Image quality and pathology assessment in CT Urography: when is the low-dose series sufficient?

Background

Methods

Results

Publications

Image quality and pathology assessment in CT Urography: when is the low-dose series sufficient?

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