Background
The aim of this study was to determine the effective dose and corresponding image quality of different imaging protocols of a robotic 3D flat panel C‐arm in comparison to computed tomography (CT).
Methods
Dose measurements were performed using a Rando–Alderson Phantom. The phantom was exposed to different scanning protocols of the 3D C‐arm and the CT. Pedicle screws were inserted in a fresh swine cadaver. Images were obtained using the same scanning protocols.
Results
At the thoracolumbar junction, the effective dose was comparable for 3D high‐dose protocols, with (4.4 mSv) and without (4.3 mSv) collimation and routine CT (5 mSv), as well as a dose‐reduction CT (4.0 mSv). A relevant reduction was achieved with the 3D low‐dose protocol (1.0 mSv). Focusing on Th6, a similar reduction with the 3D low‐dose protocol was achieved. The image quality of the 3D protocols using titanium screws was rated as ‘good’ by all viewers, with excellent correlation.
Conclusions
Modern intra‐operative 3D‐C‐arms produce images of CT‐like quality with low‐dose radiation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.