Abdominal Applications of a Novel Detector-Based Spectral CT

Detector-based spectral computed tomography (SDCT) is a recently introduced technology that uses a single x-ray tube and 2 layers of detectors to simultaneously collect low- and high-energy data. In this article, we provide an overview of this novel SDCT technology in abdominal imaging. Several applications of SDCT in abdominal imaging are discussed and illustrated, along with a brief description of current literature on the status of dual-energy computed tomography in these applications. This includes urinary calculus composition, characterization of masses (renal, adrenal, hepatic, and others), tumor perfusion, improving vascular contrast, improving lesion conspicuity, decreasing artifacts, and reducing radiation dose.