Does Iterative Reconstruction Improve Image Quality and Reduce Dose in Computed Tomography?
Journal Title: Radiology – Open Journal - Year 2016, Vol 1, Issue 2
Abstract
The Filtered Back Projection (FBP) algorithm has been the standard algorithm for image reconstruction in computed tomography (CT) for many years, but it creates possible streak artifacts and a notable increase in image noise when radiation dose is reduced exceedingly. With technological advancement and increased computational capacities in workstations, iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithms have re-emerged as a potential alternative. The purpose of this review is to establish if there is a general consensus that IR algorithms faithfully reduce radiation dose and improve image quality in CT in comparison with the FBP algorithm. A systematic review of the literature from 2012 to 2015 was conducted using Ovid MEDLINE and PubMed databases, as well as various well-known journals such as the American Journal of Roentgenology, European Journal of Radiology, Physica Medica and the Korean Journal of Radiology. A total of 57 articles were categorized as either synopsis articles or performance evaluation clinical studies, where the latter was further divided into 6 sub-categories according to the type of IR algorithm examined. The results show that the use of IR algorithms reduces objective image noise, and at least preserves spatial resolution and low contrast detectability, even when dose is reduced. The findings are also applicable to specific patient groups, such as pediatrics and obese patients. In conclusion, there is a general consensus that IR algorithms can faithfully reduce radiation dose and improve image quality in CT in comparison with the FBP algorithm.
Authors and Affiliations
Dejian Qiu
Recent Developments in Diffusion Tensor Imaging of Brain
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has come to be known as a unique radiological imaging modality because of its ability to perform tomographic imaging of body without the use of any harmful ionizing radiation. The radiolo...
Bio-Mathematical Modelling in Tumor Evaluation Via Magnetic Resonance Imaging
In the last 25 years, within the field of tumor evaluation using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), 2 main promising applications have emerged that can provide useful functional information beyond the morphological images...
Update on Limbic Connections in Human Brain: A Possible Closer Relationship Between Brain Processes and Visceral Information
The limbic system includes cortical and subcortical brain structures involved in several functions, first of all emotional and memory processes and integration. Two key structures of the limbic network are hippocampus an...
The Current Use and Effectiveness of Bismuth Shielding in Computed Tomography: A Systematic Review
Background: The increased use of computed tomography (CT) has raised concerns regarding the radiation dose received by radiosensitive organs. It is important that practical and reliable dose reduction strategies are impl...
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy Treatment for Prostate Cancer: From Setup to Delivery Strategies
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) of prostate cancer has garnered increasing attention owing to its proposed low a/b value, which is close to 1.5 Gy.1 Recent clinical data support the low value for a/b ratio as...