Quantitative
analysis of image quality will be helpful for designing ASiRTM-enhanced
paediatric CT protocols, balancing image quality and radiation dose. Catphan600
phantom studies were performed on a GE Discovery HD750 64-slice CT scanner.
Images were reconstructed with 0% - 100% ASiRTM(tube current 150 mA,
variable kVp 80 - 140) in order to determine the optimal ASiRTM-Filtered
Back Projection (FBP) blend. Images reconstructed with a 50% ASiRTM-50%FBP blend were
compared to FBP images (0% ASiRTM)over a wide range of
kVp (80 - 140) and mA (10 - 400) values. Measurements of image noise, CT number
accuracy and uniformity, spatial and contrast resolution, and low contrast
detectability were performed on axial and reformatted coronal images.
Improvements in CNR, low contrast detectability and radial uniformity were
observed in ASiRTMimages compared to FBP images. 50% ASiRTMwas associated with a
26% - 30% reduction in image noise. Changes in noise texture were observed at
higher %
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