Dual-Energy Computed Tomography in Body Imaging

Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) is an evolving radiological paradigm founded upon near-to-simultaneous acquisition of CT datasets at 2 different x-ray energy spectra.1-4 Based on discrete photoelectric effect interactions, which are peculiar to the various chemical elements composing human tissues, DECT allows for qualitative and quantitative characterization of illuminated voxels.2 Of note, photoelectric effect interactions of tissues with the x-ray beam are largely dependent upon unique characteristics of materials ’ atomic number and binding energy of innermost shell electrons within the atomic atmosphere (ie, “k-shell binding energy’’).
Source: Seminars in Roentgenology - Category: Radiology Authors: Source Type: research