Dual Energy Research

This group conducts research on the novel Siemens Dual Energy Flash CT, a unique scanner that utilizes the development of two tubes within the same scanner. This translates to shorter examination times as well as the ability to use two tubes at once. Thus, the ability to image materials with high atomical numbers, which have different densities at different energies, can enable a CT image to be sensitive to the object’s chemical composition and iodine content, for example (or other material), and accomplish this without motion artifacts. This ability translates to several potential clinical applications, including bone removal, plaque display, virtual non-contrast imaging, lung ventilation, evaluation of lung perfusion defects, or evaluation of perfusion defects in the myocardium.
Other projects this group is exploring involve validating the reliability of the virtual non-contrast images provided by the Flash CT, which would not only eliminate the need for an actual non-contrast image, but also reduce the radiation dose for the patient.
Another project involves assessing the accuracy of this novel technology in tumor detection and quantification, particularly for oropharanyngeal and pancreatic tumors. In addition, detection sensitivity for gastrointestinal bleeding and hemorrhage, as well as for gout crystals, are being tested to enable earlier diagnosis and treatment. This technology also shows promise for investigating the activity of chronic lung disease and the possible early detection of acute inflammatory lung processes.