[Digital volume tomography : Dedicated scanner and cone beam CT with C‑arm systems]

Area of Science:

• Radiological Imaging Technologies
• Medical Diagnostic Systems

Background:

• Digital volume tomography (DVT) and cone-beam computed tomography (CT) are established 3D imaging modalities.
• These systems serve as alternatives to conventional CT in specific clinical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the technological development and comparative performance of DVT and cone-beam CT against traditional CT.
• To highlight the advantages and increasing clinical adoption of 3D imaging techniques.

Main Methods:

• Comparison of image quality and radiation exposure between DVT, cone-beam CT, and conventional CT.
• Assessment of technological advancements in dedicated scanner systems, particularly for z-direction resolution.
• Analysis of radiation exposure parameters and their comparability across different imaging modalities.

Main Results:

• DVT and cone-beam CT offer comparable image quality and radiation exposure to CT when parameters are optimized.
• These 3D systems provide superior spatial resolution, especially in the z-direction.
• Advantages include improved workflow, imaging under unique conditions (e.g., stress imaging, corona technique mammography), and elimination of superpositioning.

Conclusions:

• The use of 3D imaging, including DVT and cone-beam CT, is increasing and replacing planar radiography in more clinical scenarios.
• 3D imaging offers enhanced visibility and spatial understanding of anatomical structures.
• While leading to a slight increase in patient radiation exposure, this trend is documented and reflects growing clinical recommendations.