Clinical Implementation of Dual-Energy CT for Gastrointestinal Imaging

Dual-energy CT (DECT) overcomes several limitations of conventional single-energy CT (SECT) for the evaluation of gastrointestinal diseases. This article provides an overview of practical aspects of the DECT technology and acquisition protocols, reviews existing clinical applications, discusses current challenges, and describes future directions, with a focus on gastrointestinal imaging. A head-to-head comparison is provided of technical specifications among DECT scanner implementations. Energy- and material-specific DECT image reconstructions enable retrospective (i.e., after examination acquisition) image quality adjustments that are not possible using SECT systems. Such adjustments may, for example, correct insufficient contrast bolus or metal artifact, thereby potentially avoiding patient recalls. A combination of low keV monochromatic images, iodine maps, and virtual unenhanced images can be included in protocols to improve lesion detection and disease characterization. Relevant literature is reviewed regarding use of DECT for evaluation of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and bowel. Challenges involving cost, workflow, body habitus, and variability in DECT measurements are considered. Incorporation of artificial intelligence and machine-learning image reconstruction algorithms, PACS integration, photon-counting hardware, and novel contrast agents are expected to expand the multi-energy capability of DECT and further augment its value.