摘要
Purpose Electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) is a relatively new technolog y that has been used primarily to detect coronary artery calcification in adult patients. EBCT has several potential advantages over traditional CT: (1) fast ac quisition times resulting in less need for sedation, (2) decreased radiation exp osure, and (3) robust software enabling real-time interactive 3-dimensional vi sualization of anatomic relationships. In this series of case reports, the autho rs describe their initial experience with the use of EBCT in pediatric noncardia c imaging. Methods Children with a variety of thoracic and abdominal disease pro cesses were evaluated by EBCT. Results All patients underwent EBCT scanning without the need for sedation, and 3-dimensional images of the data sets were rendered in minutes after their acquisition. The diagnostic image s provided equivalent spatial resolution to the multislice CT scanner but withou t motion artifacts and lower radiation exposure. Conclusions EBCT is a safe, eff ective, and user-and patient-friendly alternative to traditional CT in the car e of pediatric surgical diseases. The diagnostic yield of EBCT will continue to improve with new technologic advances and clinical experience.
Purpose Electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) is a relatively new technolog y that has been used primarily to detect coronary artery calcification in adult patients. EBCT has several potential advantages over traditional CT: (1) fast ac quisition times resulting in less need for sedation, (2) decreased radiation exp osure, and (3) robust software enabling real-time interactive 3-dimensional vi sualization of anatomic relationships. In this series of case reports, the autho rs describe their initial experience with the use of EBCT in pediatric noncardia c imaging. Methods Children with a variety of thoracic and abdominal disease pro cesses were evaluated by EBCT. Results All patients underwent EBCT scanning without the need for sedation, and 3-dimensional images of the data sets were rendered in minutes after their acquisition. The diagnostic image s provided equivalent spatial resolution to the multislice CT scanner but withou t motion artifacts and lower radiation exposure. Conclusions EBCT is a safe, eff ective, and user-and patient-friendly alternative to traditional CT in the car e of pediatric surgical diseases. The diagnostic yield of EBCT will continue to improve with new technologic advances and clinical experience.
