Potential of photon counting computed tomography derived spectral reconstructions to reduce beam-hardening artifacts in chest CT

•With its novel detector technology, Photon counting CT offers inherent spectral contrast, which can be utilized for virtual monoenergetic imaging, virtual non-contrast and iodine maps.•Photon counting CT derived virtual monoenergetic images can reduce beam- hardening artifacts in thoracic imaging and optimize image quality.•In subjective artifact assessment pronounced and severe artifacts were completely suppressed for all evaluated areas at 120 keV. Aim of the recent study is to point out a method to optimize quality of CT scans in oncological patients with port systems. This study investigates the potential of photon counting computed tomography (PCCT) for reduction of beam hardening artifacts caused by port-implants in chest imaging by means of spectral reconstructions. In this retrospective single-center study, 8 ROIs for 19 spectral reconstructions (polyenergetic imaging, monoenergetic reconstructions from 40 to 190 keV as well as iodine maps and virtual non contrast (VNC)) of 49 patients with pectoral port systems undergoing PCCT of the chest for staging of oncologic disease were measured. Mean values and standard deviation (SD) Hounsfield unit measurements of port-chamber associated hypo- and hyperdense artifacts, bilateral muscles and vessels has been carried out. Also, a structured assessment of artifacts and imaging findings was performed by two radiologists. A significant association of keV with iodine contrast as well as artifact intensity was noted (all p