Computed tomography: Quality control

Abstract

Cardiovascular CT has the potential to deliver very high resolution images of the coronary artery system with minimal radiation dosage and study time. To achieve diagnostic quality images, CT acquisitions must be acquired using appropriate protocols, an appropriate scanner instrumentation and data processed correctly. Technologists should be aware of the trade-offs in acquisition parameters and understand optimal processing techniques. Physicians should also be able to recognize high quality cardiac CT studies and identify image artifacts as well as acquisition/processing errors when present.