Co-clinical photon counting CT research for multi-contrast imaging

Developing novel contrast agents for multi-energy photon-counting (PC)CT will require a clear translation pathway from preclinical validation to clinical applications. To begin this development, we have used a clinical PCCT scanner (Siemens NAEOTOM Alpha) to study the spectral separation of a few contrast elements (Iodine, I; Gadolinium, Gd; Hafnium, Hf; Tantalum, Ta; Bismuth, Bi; Calcium, Ca) with currently available scanning protocols (fixed: 120 kVp, 20 and 65 keV thresholds). We also explored the capabilities of clinical and preclinical PCCT to image mice with sarcoma tumors injected with nanoparticles (NP). Our results indicate that Ta or Hf are complementary to I or Gd, providing excellent spectral separation for future multi-agent studies. Based on preclinical PCCT with four energy thresholds, we also conclude that additional energy thresholds will benefit clinical PCCT. Furthermore, we demonstrate the role that multi-channel denoising and reconstruction algorithms will play in pushing the bounds of spatial and spectral resolution with clinical PCCT. Performing co-clinical research will facilitate the translation of novel imaging algorithms and NP contrast agents for PCCT.

Duke Scholars

Author Cristian Tudorel Badea Radiology

Author Yvonne Marie Mowery Radiation Oncology

Author Darin Clark Radiology