Iterative Reconstruction: State-of-the-Art and Future Perspectives.

Journal: Journal of computer assisted tomography
Published Date:

Abstract

Image reconstruction processing in computed tomography (CT) has evolved tremendously since its creation, succeeding at optimizing radiation dose while maintaining adequate image quality. Computed tomography vendors have developed and implemented various technical advances, such as automatic noise reduction filters, automatic exposure control, and refined imaging reconstruction algorithms.Focusing on imaging reconstruction, filtered back-projection has represented the standard reconstruction algorithm for over 3 decades, obtaining adequate image quality at standard radiation dose exposures. To overcome filtered back-projection reconstruction flaws in low-dose CT data sets, advanced iterative reconstruction algorithms consisting of either backward projection or both backward and forward projections have been developed, with the goal to enable low-dose CT acquisitions with high image quality. Iterative reconstruction techniques play a key role in routine workflow implementation (eg, screening protocols, vascular and pediatric applications), in quantitative CT imaging applications, and in dose exposure limitation in oncologic patients.Therefore, this review aims to provide an overview of the technical principles and the main clinical application of iterative reconstruction algorithms, focusing on the strengths and weaknesses, in addition to integrating future perspectives in the new era of artificial intelligence.

Authors

  • Gisella Guido
    Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy.
  • Michela Polici
    Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy.
  • Ilaria Nacci
  • Fernando Bozzi
  • Domenico De Santis
    Division of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina; Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Pathology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy.
  • Nicolò Ubaldi
  • Tiziano Polidori
  • Marta Zerunian
    Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy.
  • Benedetta Bracci
  • Andrea Laghi
    Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Pathology, University La Sapienza, AOU Sant'Andrea, Via di Grottarossa 1035, 00189 Rome, Italy.
  • Damiano Caruso
    Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Pathology, University La Sapienza, AOU Sant'Andrea, Via di Grottarossa 1035, 00189 Rome, Italy.