Benefits
The rapid advances in clinical radiology technology and theory have dramatically improved the diagnosis and treatment of illness and injury.…
Read more
Dual energy CT scans are a newer form of CT scanning that use separate X-ray energies to make images. Images can be generated:
Some machine vendors refer to this as Spectral CT.
There are a wide and growing range of indications for selecting dual energy CT scanning over standard CT. The main current indications are:
The prerequisites for a dual energy CT scan are identical to a standard CT scan. Pregnancy should be excluded and, if iodinated contrast is required, the renal function should be known. This particularly applies if the patient is diabetic, has renal disease, is on nephrotoxic drugs or is aged over 60 years (see RANZCR contrast guidelines). Any history of previous contrast reaction should be recorded on the request form.
Given the precautions about iodinated contrast, there are no absolute contraindications for dual energy CT. If contraindications to intravenous iodinated contrast exist, consideration should be given to carrying out an alternative study or optimising the relevant factors; for example, by pre-hydrating the patient or having anaesthetic cover available. Discussion of this type of case with the radiologist is often helpful.
Relative contraindications for dual energy CT scans are no different to those of single energy CT scanners (see Computed Tomography).
The major adverse effects of a dual energy CT scan are related to the radiation exposure and the use of intravenous iodinated contrast (not always required).
Radiation (see Radiation Risk of Medical Imaging for Adults and Children). Dual energy CT produces similar doses overall to the standard CT machines in use. With most dual energy CT scanners, the combination of a more efficient arrangement and dose-saving technologies means that the dose can actually be less than older, standard CT scanners.
Contrast reactions. Not all dual energy CT uses contrast, but there obviously is a risk of contrast reaction for those that do (see RANZCR contrast guidelines and Iodine-containing contrast medium (ICCM)).
Most patients can leave straight after any venous cannula has been removed. However, it is recommended that patients at higher risk of contrast reaction; for example, previous reaction or atopic individuals, are observed for 30 minutes post-contrast administration, and that the venous cannula is left in situ for that time. (see RANZCR contrast guidelines).
CT angiography can be carried out on a standard CT scanner, but image quality and bone subtraction might not be as good. MRI and ultrasound may provide further evaluation of blood vessel structure and anatomy. Non-invasive renal stone and gout evaluation cannot be carried out by any other technique. Dual energy CT can create ‘virtual non-contrast’ (VNC) images from post-contrast images therefore reducing radiation dose if non-contrast images are also required. Photon-counting CT is a further technical development that uses a novel detector to directly quantify and convert multiple photon energies into electrical signals.
Page last modified on 19/8/2024.
RANZCR® is not aware that any person intends to act or rely upon the opinions, advices or information contained in this publication or of the manner in which it might be possible to do so. It issues no invitation to any person to act or rely upon such opinions, advices or information or any of them and it accepts no responsibility for any of them.
RANZCR® intends by this statement to exclude liability for any such opinions, advices or information. The content of this publication is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. It is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient and his/her doctor. Some of the tests and procedures included in this publication may not be available at all radiology providers.
RANZCR® recommends that any specific questions regarding any procedure be discussed with a person's family doctor or medical specialist. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, RANZCR®, its Board, officers and employees assume no responsibility for its content, use, or interpretation. Each person should rely on their own inquires before making decisions that touch their own interests.