Image quality in dual-source multiphasic dynamic computed tomography of the abdomen: evaluating the effects of a low tube voltage (70 kVp) in combination with contrast dose reduction

Purpose To compare the image quality of multiphasic (arterial, portal, and equilibrium phases) dynamic computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen obtained by a low tube voltage (70kVp) in combination with a half-dose iodine load using low-concentration contrast agent in high tube output dual-source CT with a standard tube voltage (120kVp) and full-dose iodine load using the same group of adult patients. Methods Fifty-five patients who underwent both low-tube-voltage (70kVp) abdominal CT with a half-dose iodine load and standard-tube-voltage (120kVp) CT with a full-dose iodine load were analyzed. The mean CT values and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the liver, aorta and portal veins were quantitatively assessed. In addition, the contrast enhancement of the abdominal organs and overall image quality were qualitatively evaluated. Results The mean CT values and SNR of the liver parenchyma were significantly higher in 70-kVp protocol than in 120-kVp protocol in all 3 phases ( p = 0.018 ~