Automatic selection of optimal systolic and diastolic reconstruction windows for dual-source CT coronary angiography

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the performance of a motion-map algorithm that automatically determines optimal reconstruction windows for dual-source coronary CT angiography. In datasets from 50 consecutive patients, optimal systolic and diastolic reconstruction windows were determined using the motion-map algorithm. For manual determination of the optimal reconstruction window, datasets were reconstructed in 5% steps throughout the RR interval. Motion artifacts were rated for each major coronary vessel using a five-point scale. Mean motion scores using the motion-map algorithm were 2.4±0.8 for systolic reconstructions and 1.9±0.8 for diastolic reconstructions. Using the manual approach, overall motion scores were significantly better (1.9±0.5 and 1.7±0.6, p< 0.05), but diagnostic image quality was reached in >90% of cases using either approach. Using the automated approach, there was a negative correlation between heart rate and motion scores for systolic reconstructions (?=?0.26, p<0.05) and a positive correlation for diastolic reconstructions (?=0.46, p<0.01). For the manual approach, no significant correlation was found for systolic reconstructions (?=?0.1, p= 0.52), while there was a positive correlation for diastolic reconstructions (?=0.48, p<0.01). Thus, the motionmap algorithm is a useful tool to save time in finding an appropriate reconstruction window in patients with heart rates <70 bpm (diastolic reconstruction) and >80 bpm (systolic reconstruction).

Authors: H. Seifarth, M. Puesken, S. Wienbeck. D. Maintz, R. Fischbach, W. Heindel, K.-U. Juergens

Full text: Eur Radiol. 2009 Feb 24. [Epub ahead of print]