Results of a multicenter 4D computed tomography quality assurance audit: Evaluating image accuracy and consistency

Burghelea M, Bakkali Tahiri J, Dhont J, Kyndt M, Gulyban A, Szkitsak J, Bogaert E, van Gestel D, Reynaert N (2023)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2023

Journal

Physics and Imaging in Radiation Oncology Elsevier

Book Volume: 28

Article Number: 100479

DOI: 10.1016/j.phro.2023.100479

Abstract

Background and purpose: 4D Computed Tomography (4DCT) technology captures the location and movement of tumors and nearby organs at risk over time. In this study, a multi-institutional multi-vendor 4DCT audit was initiated to assess the accuracy of current imaging protocols. Materials and methods: Twelve centers, including thirteen scanners performed a 4DCT acquisition of a dynamic thorax phantom using the institution's own protocol with the in-house breathing monitoring system. Five regular and three irregular breathing patterns were used. Image acquisition and reconstruction were followed by automated image analysis with our in-house developed 4DCT QA program (QAMotion). CT number accuracy, volume deviation, amplitude deviation, and spatial integrity were assessed per pattern using both the segmented volumes and line profiles. Results: Regular breathing curves showed relatively accurate results across all institutions, with mean volume and CT number deviations and median amplitude deviation below 2%, 5 HU and 2 mm, respectively. Results obtained for irregular patterns showed more variation across the institutions. Volume and CT number deviations co-occurred with a blurring of the sphere, interpolation, or double-structure artifacts that were confirmed through the line profiles. For some of the irregular patterns, amplitude deviations up to 6 mm were observed. Maximum Intensity Projection (MaxIP) correctly captured the applied motion amplitude with deviations across all institutions within 2 mm except for double amplitude pattern. Conclusions: All centers invited to participate in the audit responded positively, highlighting the need for a comprehensive yet easy-to-execute 4DCT quality assurance program. The largest variances between the results from one institution to another confirmed that a standardized 4DCT audit is warranted.

Authors with CRIS profile

Juliane Szkitsak Department of Radiation Oncology

Involved external institutions

Institut Jules Bordet BE Belgium (BE) MIM Software Inc. US United States (USA) (US) University Hospital Ghent BE Belgium (BE)

How to cite

APA:

Burghelea, M., Bakkali Tahiri, J., Dhont, J., Kyndt, M., Gulyban, A., Szkitsak, J.,... Reynaert, N. (2023). Results of a multicenter 4D computed tomography quality assurance audit: Evaluating image accuracy and consistency. Physics and Imaging in Radiation Oncology, 28. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phro.2023.100479

MLA:

Burghelea, Manuela, et al. "Results of a multicenter 4D computed tomography quality assurance audit: Evaluating image accuracy and consistency." Physics and Imaging in Radiation Oncology 28 (2023).

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