Trends in 3-D CT Postprocessing

The increasing number of multidetector CT scanners in radiology departments has intensified demand for 3-D imaging. This study sought to reveal the frequency and type of postprocessing tasks being performed by computed tomography (CT) technologists by discussing the longitudinal results of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) CT practice analysis surveys from 1993 to 2007.

In 1993, 2001 and 2007, the ARRT mailed CT job analysis surveys to a national randomized sample of 1000 radiologic technologists per year who were employed full time in CT, for a combined total of 3000. A usable sample of 1476 responses from the 3 surveys revealed technologists' level of responsibility for a variety of CT tasks, including 3-D imaging.

The proportion of respondents responsible for 3-D imaging increased from 47% in 1993 to 74% in 2001 and to 82% in 2007 (P< .001). This increase occurred in all employment settings (P < .001) and department sizes (P < .001), including small departments. Daily frequency of occurrence grew from 4% in 1993 to 11% in 2001 and 53% in 2007 (P< .001).

Routine 3-D postprocessing has become typical practice in radiology CT departments across all employment settings.