Contrast media 

Learn more about the reduction in contrast media dose enabled by low kV scanning 

How can spectral CT imaging improve the efficiency of contrast media usage? Spectral CT acquired with latest photon-counting detector technology intelligently reduces the noise in the calculated low keV imaging with the Monoenergetic + algorithm. Excellent CNR can be achieved to boost the attenuation of iodine at low energies. The radiation dose, the amount of contrast media - or a combination - can be reduced and still get the right results needed for the patient and clinical question. With unique VSPP data format from Siemens Healthineers, it’s possible to interactively change the keV levels while reading the case.

Lower kV settings help reduce radiation dose and the amount of contrast media needed in coronary CTA.

In this case, a coronary CT angiography (cCTA) shows a moderate stenosis in the proximal left anterior descending artery (LAD) caused by a calcified plaque. Image data was acquired on a SOMATOM go.Top CT scanner at 80 kV to enhance the contrast-to-noise ratio, resulting in a reduction in the radiation dose as well as in the amount of contrast agent needed (28 ml).

How does CARE kV help reduce the amount of contrast media needed in a patient with solitary kidney?

In this clinical case, a contrast media enhanced scan was required for the patient having only one kidney. CARE kV automatically adjusts kV settings to maintain a high CNR for all patients, optimizing the amount of contrast media needed. In this CT scan with a SOMATOM X.cite, we applied 95 ml of a non-ionic CM at a 350 mg/ml concentration with a 3.5 ml/s and achieved the desired result.

Interested to see how lower kV settings help reduce the concentration and the amount of contrast media needed in a patient with renal insufficiency?

In this case, a 3-phase liver CT scan shows a small HCC recurrence adjacent to the previous TACE site in a patient with renal insufficiency. Image data was acquired on a Dual Source CT scanner, SOMATOM Drive, in dual power mode to provide enough mA needed at 70 kV, with only 34 ml contrast agent diluted to 180 mg/ml.

See how the Turbo Flash speed enabled by Dual Source and lower kV settings optimize contrast media use.
In this case, a CT angiography post-EVAR follow-up shows multiple stent grafts placed for renovisceral revascularization using “octopus, periscope, and chimney” techniques. Image data was acquired on a Dual Source CT scanner, SOMATOM Force, using high-pitch Turbo Flash mode to acquire the entire aorta in just 1 second. CARE kV automatically applied a lower kV setting (90 kV) to enhance the contrast-to-noise ratio, resulting in a reduction in the radiation dose as well as in the amount of contrast agent needed (45 ml).

How can spectral CT imaging improve the efficiency of contrast media usage? Spectral CT acquired with latest photon-counting detector technology intelligently reduces the noise in the calculated low keV imaging with the Monoenergetic + algorithm. Excellent CNR can be achieved to boost the attenuation of iodine at low energies. The radiation dose, the amount of contrast media - or a combination - can be reduced and still get the right results needed for the patient and clinical question. With unique VSPP data format from Siemens Healthineers, it’s possible to interactively change the keV levels while reading the case.