Multi-slice CT contrast enhancement regimens

Historically, the development of progressively faster Computed Tomography (CT) technology has dictated a recurrent need to re-examine intravenous contrast agent enhancement regimens. The most recently introduced development, the very fast, multi-slice helical/spiral systems, have raised the same issue yet again. It is possible, exploiting the technology to its maximum potential as regards speed, to perform an examination many times faster (depending on the number of detector rings from 4 to 64) even than with earlier single slice spiral instruments. In order to optimise image quality, such maximal speed gains will not usually be sought but, nevertheless, imaging time will generally be substantially reduced. It is natural that the question of a possible need to modify contrast agent enhancement protocols designed for an earlier generation of slower machines should again be considered. Using as a basis known contrast agent pharmacokinetics and results of modelling techniques, the matter is tackled in this paper.