Pediatric applications of helical (spiral) CT. [Review]
Source
Radiologic Clinics of North America. 33(5):997-1022, 1995 Sep.
Abstract
By acquiring a volumetric data set helical CT has advanced many
established applications of conventional CT. The most important advantages
of helical CT over conventional CT are (1) the shorter examination time,
which decreases image degradation from motion artifact, even in infants
and young children; (2) the capability for retrospective image
reconstruction, which decreases image degradation from volume averaging;
and (3) improved multiplanar reconstructions. By reducing motion artifacts and (3) improved multiplanar reconstructions. By reducing motion artifacts
and partial volume averaging associated with conventional CT scanning,
helical CT reduces the number of repeat CT sections and ultimately the
radiation exposure. Helical CT also provides the potential for new
applications of CT, such as dynamic studies of pulmonary physiology.
Continued clinical experience will advance the pediatric applications of
helical CT in the evaluation of thoracic, abdominal, and musculoskeletal
pathology. Because of its advantages over conventional CT, helical CT has
the potential to become the preferred method of CT imaging in children. [References: 56]