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Can Dual Energy CT with Fast kV-Switching Determine Renal Stone Composition Accurately?
Bo Mussmann1, Maryann Hardy2, Helene Jung3
1Department of Radiology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark, Sdr. Boulevard 29, 5000 Odense C, Denmark; Research and Innovation Unit of Radiology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway.
Academic Radiology
|March 29, 2020
Summary
Dual energy computed tomography (CT) accurately identifies renal stone composition and diameter. This low-dose CT technology shows promise for in vivo kidney stone characterization and clinical decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Nephrology
- Radiology
Background:
- Renal stones (kidney stones) require accurate characterization for effective treatment.
- Current methods for stone analysis can be invasive or time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a single-source computed tomography (CT) system with fast kV switching for accurate renal stone characterization.
- To compare CT-based stone analysis (diameter and chemical composition) with infrared spectroscopy.
Main Methods:
- Fifteen renal stones were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.
- Stones were scanned using dual-energy CT with fast kV switching and standard protocols.
- Stone diameter was measured by CT and micro-CT; effective atomic number was calculated.
Main Results:
- Dual-energy CT correctly identified the composition of 10 out of 12 stones (83% agreement).
- No significant difference was found in mean stone diameter measurements between clinical CT and micro-CT.
- Scanner software failed to determine the composition of three specific stone types.
Conclusions:
- Dual-energy CT with fast kV switching shows potential as a low-dose tool for in vivo renal stone identification.
- This technology could aid in clinical decision-making for kidney stone management.
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