Techniques and applications of automatic tube current modulation for CT

Radiology. 2004 Dec;233(3):649-57. doi: 10.1148/radiol.2333031150. Epub 2004 Oct 21.

Abstract

Introduction of slip-ring technology with subsequent development of single- and multi-detector row helical computed tomographic (CT) scanners have expanded the applications of CT, leading to a substantial increase in the number of CT examinations being performed. Owing to concerns about the resultant increase in associated radiation dose, many technical innovations have been introduced. One such innovation is automatic tube current modulation. The purpose of automatic tube current modulation is to maintain constant image quality regardless of patient attenuation characteristics, thus allowing radiation dose to patients to be reduced. This review discusses the principles, clinical use, and limitations of different automatic tube current modulation techniques.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Equipment Design
  • Humans
  • Radiation Dosage
  • Radiographic Image Enhancement / instrumentation
  • Radiographic Image Enhancement / methods
  • Technology, Radiologic / instrumentation
  • Technology, Radiologic / methods*
  • Tomography Scanners, X-Ray Computed*
  • Tomography, Spiral Computed / instrumentation
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / instrumentation
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*