Combined Angio-CT Systems: A Roadmap Tool for Precision Therapy in Interventional Oncology

Combined angiography-CT (angio-CT) systems, which combine traditional angiographic imaging with cross-sectional imaging, are a valuable tool for interventional radiology. Although cone-beam CT (CBCT) technology from flat-panel angiography systems has been established as an adjunct cross-sectional imaging tool during interventional procedures, the intrinsic advantages of angio-CT systems concerning superior soft-tissue imaging and contrast resolution, along with operational ease, have sparked renewed interest in their use in interventional oncology procedures. Owing to increases in affordability and usability due to an improved workflow, angio-CT systems have become a viable alternative to stand-alone flat-panel angiographic systems equipped with CBCT. This review aims to provide a comprehensive technical and clinical guide for the use of angio-CT systems in interventional oncology. The basic concepts related to the use of angio-CT systems, including concepts related to workflow setup, imaging characteristics, and acquisition parameters, will be discussed. Additionally, an overview on the clinical applications and the benefits of angio-CT systems in routine therapeutic and palliative interventional oncology procedures will be reviewed. Keywords: Ablation Techniques, CT-Angiography, Interventional-Body, Interventional-MSK, Chemoembolization, Embolization, Radiation Therapy/Oncology, Abdomen/GI, Skeletal-Axial Supplemental material is available for this article. © RSNA, 2021.