How does dual-energy CT work?

Dual-energy CT operates by utilizing two different energy settings to acquire images of the same anatomical area at distinct energy levels. This approach allows for differentiation of various materials based on their atomic numbers, which is essential for characterizing tissues and substances in the body. Materials with differing atomic numbers absorb X-rays at varying rates when exposed to different energy levels. For instance, iodine and calcium will exhibit different attenuation characteristics at low and high energy settings, enabling the technology to clearly differentiate these substances.

By analyzing the differences in attenuation between the two energy settings, dual-energy CT provides enhanced contrast resolution. This capability is particularly useful in various clinical applications such as detecting and characterizing tumors, evaluating vascular lesions, and distinguishing between various types of tissues and substances, thereby improving diagnostic accuracy.