Deep-learning-based spectral motion artifact correction on photon-counting cardiac CT images

Objective.While photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) improves image quality and reduces radiation dose, artifacts induced by cardiac and respiratory motion is still a challenge. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the potential of an image-domain motion-artifact-correction method based on a deep-learning model that incorporates spectral information (material basis images).Approach.We simulated PCCT imaging of five XCAT phantoms, and used these for training two deep neural networks-one with and one without spectral information-to map two motion-corrupted virtual monoenergetic images to corresponding motion-free images. Using images from another simulated XCAT phantom, we calculated the CT number error on five regions of interest and 10 segmented organs. The method was also evaluated visually on clinical cardiac PCCT images. Stretch quantification of endocardial engraved zones was used to calculate regional wall motion and mechanical delay. The results were compared with the motion-free image using a paired t-test.Main results.Out of 45 regions and organs, the CT number accuracy is improved in 41 regions (91%). Among these, the best accuracy is obtained with spectral information in 25 regions (61%). Both models, in particular the one with spectral information, improves visual image quality in simulated and clinical images. The model significantly (P< 0.01) improved estimation of the regional wall motion and assessment of mechanical delay of the left ventricle, but no significant difference was observed between models with and without spectral information.Significance.Our approach, validated on simulated datasets, shows that quantitative cardiac CT imaging can be improved by deep-learning motion correction and that spectral information substantially improves performance.