The aim of this exhibit is to review various latest imaging techniques that can improve the image quality and diagnostic utility of CT of abdomen and pelvis.

According to the American College of Radiology Appropriateness criteria,computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis (CTAP) is the imaging modality of choice in many clinical situations, including blunt abdominal trauma, acute abdominal pain, suspected abdominal abscess and inflammation, and in the detection and surveillance of neoplastic conditions (1). Superior CT image quality allows improved diagnostic accuracy of these conditions and more appropriate management, particularly in the emergency setting. CTAP image quality is defined by contrast resolution, spatial resolution, image noise and artefacts. Appropriate CT scanning...

A number of techniques are available for improving image quality of CTAP include: 1. Temporal resolution A combination of increased number of multi-detector rows up to 320, dual tube configuration, faster rotation time and higher table pitch in modern CT scanners produces superior temporal resolution and shortens scanning time. The improved temporal resolution helps limiting the breathing and body motion artifact, as well as vascular pulsation artifact, resulting in better delineation of organ and lesion margins (Figure 1). 2. Water equivalent diameter (WED) WED is...

CTAP has become first line imaging method for many conditions. The image quality can, however, be limited by patient’s body habita, image noise, suboptimal contrast enhancement, motion and aliasing/blooming artefacts. CT technology is rapidly advancing, with a wide spectrum of CT imaging techniques that can improve image quality at the appropriate lowest possible radiation dose. CTAP is a prime example of the benefits of some of these latest imaging techniques that enhance the accuracy of abdominal pathology assessment. This is particularly important in emergency setting...

1. AmericanCollegeofRadiology (1995) ACR-SPR practice parameter for the performance of computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and computed tomography (CT) of the pelvis. 2. iPatient. Patient-centered CT imaging: New methods for patient-specific optimization of image quality and radiation dose. In: Philips Healthcare, editor. Koninklijke Philips Electronics NV. Netherlands2012. 3. Ardley ND, Lau KK, Buchan K. Efficacy of average water equivalent diameter measurements to standardise image quality and dose in Abdominal CT In: Monash Health, editor. Monash Imaging. Melbourne 2014. 4. Menke J. Comparison of Different...