Dual-energy CT angiography in displaying thyroid feeding artery / 中国医学影像技术

ABSTRACT

Objective: To explore the ability of dual-energy CT angiography for displaying thyroid feeding arteries and its value in quality optimization. Methods: Energy spectrum data of 100 patients who underwent head and neck CTA were analyzed retrospectively. The energy spectrum single energy imaging technique was used to reconstruct 60 keV and 75 keV single energy images. Combining with VR and MIP post-processing images, the anatomical features of the thyroid feeding arteries were observed. The quality of 60 keV and 75 keV single energy images were evaluated objectively and subjectively. Results: A total of 200 superior thyroid arteries (100 left and 100 right), as well as 165 inferior thyroid arteries (76 left and 89 right) and 3 lower thyroid arteries were displayed. The quality of 60 keV single energy images was better than that of 75 keV single-energy images, and the differences of CT value, SNR and subjective scores were all statistically significant (all P<0.05). Conclusion: Dual-energy CT angiography can clearly display thyroid feeding arteries. 60 keV single energy image is recommended.