Low radiation dose imaging of myocardial perfusion and coronary angiography with a hybrid PET/CT scanner

Authors: Kajander, S.¹; Ukkonen, H.²; Sipilä, H.¹; Teräs, M.¹; Knuuti, J.¹

Source: Clinical Physiology and Functional Imaging, Volume 29, Number 1, January 2009 , pp. 81-88(8)

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

Abstract:

Summary Objectives: 

To test the image quality and feasibility of a sequential low radiation dose protocol for hybrid cardiac PET/CT angiography (CTA). Background: 

Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is a non-invasive method for coronary angiography. The negative predictive value of MDCT is high but perfusion imaging has a role in detecting functional significance of coronary lesions. This has encouraged combining these techniques. However, radiation dose is of concern. We report our first experiences with a low dose sequential CTA mode applicable to hybrid imaging. Methods: 

In the first phase, 10 consecutive cardiac MDCT angiographies were performed with spiral acquisition and compared in terms of image quality and dose with the following 10 patients performed with a new sequential mode. In the second phase, feasibility and radiation dose of a combined ¹⁵O-water rest-stress PET perfusion/sequential CTA protocol were assessed in another group of 61 consecutive patients. Results: 

Mean effective radiation dose was 60% lower in the sequential group than in the spiral group (19·3 versus 7·6 mSv, P<0·001). In the second phase, the new sequential hybrid protocol proved possible in 87% of the patients given the preconditions determined by the manufacturer. Mean effective dose of the CT acquisition was 7·6 mSv and total dose from the PET/CTA hybrid study 9·5 mSv. Conclusion: 

Low dose PET/CT allows cardiac hybrid studies with <10 mSv. The protocol can be applied to almost nine out of 10 patients with CT image quality comparable to spiral acquisition.

Keywords: CT; CTA; hybrid imaging; PET; radiation dose

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1475-097X.2008.00838.x

Affiliations: 1: Turku PET Centre, Turku, Finland 2: Dept of Internal Medicine, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland

Publication date: 2009-01-01

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• In this Subject: Anatomy & Physiology ,  Radiology & Imaging
• By this author: Kajander, S. ;  Ukkonen, H. ;  Sipilä, H. ;  Teräs, M. ;  Knuuti, J.

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