Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 9, 2025

Novel In Vivo Micro-Computed Tomography Imaging Techniques for Assessing the Progression of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Published on: March 24, 2023
Virtual Non-Contrast versus True Non-Contrast Computed Tomography: Initial Experiences with a Photon Counting Scanner
Julius Henning Niehoff1, Matthias Michael Woeltjen1, Kai Roman Laukamp2
1Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology and Nuclear Medicine, Johannes Wesling University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany.
Abstract:
The present study evaluates the diagnostic reliability of virtual non-contrast (VNC) images acquired with the first photon counting CT scanner that is approved for clinical use by comparing quantitative image properties of VNC and true non-contrast (TNC) images. Seventy-two patients were retrospectively enrolled in this study. VNC images reconstructed from the arterial (VNCa) and the portalvenous (VNCv) phase were compared to TNC images. In addition, consistency between VNCa and VNCv images was evaluated. Regions of interest (ROI) were drawn in the following areas: liver, spleen, kidney, aorta, muscle, fat and bone. Comparison of VNCa and VNCv images revealed a mean offset of less than 4 HU in all tissues. The greatest difference between TNC and VNC images was found in spongious bone (VNCv 86.13 HU ± 28.44, p < 0.001). Excluding measurements in spongious bone, differences between TNC and VNCv of 10 HU or less were found in 40% (VNCa 36%) and differences of 15 HU or less were found in 72% (VNCa 68%) of all measurements. The underlying algorithm for the subtraction of iodine works in principle but requires adjustments. Until then, special caution should be exercised when using VNC images in routine clinical practice.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Computed Tomography
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
Imaging Studies II: Positron Emission Tomography and Scintigraphy
Fundamental Principles of PET
Positron Emission Tomography
One of the main requirements of a PET scan is a positron-emitting radioisotope, which is produced in a cyclotron and then attached to a substance used by the part of the body...
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...

