Multi-parameter imaging of dual-layer detector spectral CT in improving the imaging quality of gastrocolic trunk of henle (GTH)

To investigate the clinical application value of multi-parameter imaging with dual-layer detector spectral CT (DLCT) for GTH visualization. A total of 61 patients who underwent abdominal portal venous phase-enhanced SLCT were retrospectively enrolled. The raw image data were reconstructed into 120 kVp conventional images (CI 120 kVp ) and virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) at 40, 50, 60, and 70 keV (VMI 40−70 keV ). Regions of interest (ROIs) were placed on the main trunk of GTH and the erector spinae muscle at the corresponding level to measure CT values and standard deviations (SD, indicative of image noise). The CT values, image noise, signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs), and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) of VMI and CI 120 kVp were analyzed. The image quality and anatomical information of each group were subjectively evaluated by integrating three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction technology, iodine density map, and effective atomic number (Zeff) map. For GTH visualized on VMI 40 keV , the CT value (530.56 ± 82.33 HU), SNR (25.34 ± 5.63), and CNR (57.85 ± 12.43) was significantly higher than those of the remaining groups (all P < 0.001). Subjective scoring indicated that VMI 40 keV achieved the optimal image quality and vascular visualization performance. The iodine density map demonstrates relatively high density in vascular regions, the Zeff map shows distinct coloration between vascular regions and non-vascular areas. VMI 40 keV using DLCT provides better GTH image quality compared with CI 120 kVp , which may offer valuable support for clinical practice and preoperative surgical planning.