Purpose or learning objective
This study investigates the evolving role of CT radiographers to use innovative AI tools like AI-powered patient auto-positioning, scan length optimization (SmartPlan @ GE Healthcare), and Deep Learning Image Reconstruction (DLIR, True fidelity @ GE Healthcare). These advances are transforming CT imaging, highlighting the critical role of radiographers in implementing and leveraging such new technologies for optimizing patient care, managing radiation dose and ensuring image quality.
Methods or background
Fifty patients (aged 31-81 years old) underwent two Thorax Abdomen Pelvis (TAP) CT examinations during a period of 18 months as part of their oncological follow up care. Both examinations were performed with contrast media injection and multiphase protocol. First examination performed with a traditional 64-slices CT scanner (GE Lightspeed 64sl) equipped with first generation of iterative reconstruction (HIR, ASIR @ GE Healthcare) while the second one was acquired using the newly installed AI-enhanced CT 64-slices (GE Revolution Ascend 64sl) in the same imaging center....
Results or findings
Results from 100 examinations were collected and analyzed using a Business Intelligence Tool (Imaging Insights & Dose Analytics @ GE Healthcare).Radiation dose in terms of CTDI was reduced 29% on average with higher reduction in obese patients 40%, overweight 33% and 22% in standard (Figure 3). Subjective image quality was evaluated more than acceptable either for traditional and AI-driven examinations in all patients (respectively 3,6 and 4,4 median values).[Fig 3]In regards to patient positioning and scanning length, AI-driven autopositioning delivered significant improvements in the accuracy...
Conclusion
The integration of AI tools in CT imaging represents a transformative advancement in radiological practices, significantly enhancing both efficiency and safety. AI-driven systems have demonstrated remarkable capabilities in reducing radiation dose exposure for patients, while simultaneously improving diagnostic image quality. However, despite these technological advancements, the role of CT radiographers remains indispensable. Their clinical expertise and technical proficiency are critical for the proper implementation and monitoring of AI tools, ensuring their seamless integration into daily practice. As AI continues to evolve, CT technologists serve as...
References
R. Nelson, S. Harkin, G. Iball, Use of a 3D camera for automated patient positioning for chest-abdomen-pelvis CT scans: Effect on positioning accuracy and patient dose, Radiography, Volume 30, Issue 4, 2024, Pages 1060-1067, ISSN 1078-8174, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2024.04.016.
DeWeese L, Griglock T, Moody A, Mehlberg A, Winters C. The Improvement of Patient Centering in Computed Tomography Through a Technologist-Focused Education Initiative. J Digit Imaging. 2022 Apr;35(2):327-334. doi: 10.1007/s10278-021-00580-w. Epub 2022 Jan 12. PMID: 35022923; PMCID: PMC8754066
Personal information and conflict of interest
C. Colmo:
Nothing to disclose
G. Schifano:
Nothing to disclose
A. Zompa:
Nothing to disclose
G. Zaggia:
Nothing to disclose
M. Codignola:
Nothing to disclose
S. Puggina:
Nothing to disclose
A. Papachristodoulou:
Nothing to disclose
A. Roncacci:
Nothing to disclose
C. Paraskevopoulou:
Nothing to disclose