Showing papers on "Imaging technology published in 2002"

Encyclopedia of imaging science and technology

Abstract: Final Title List. Article Title, Category, Total mss -- 82. Acoustic Sources or Receiver Arrays: Directional Response Characteristics of, Detector Technology. Analog and Digital SQUID Sensors, Detector Technology. Capacitive Probe Microscopy, Imaging Techniques Systems. Cathode Ray Tube Display Technology, Display Technology. Cathode Ray Tubes, Display Technology. Characterization of Image Systems, End User. Charged Particle Optics, Image Formation. Color Image Processing, Digital Image Processing. Color Photography, Imaging Techniques Systems. Digital Video, Display Technology. Digital Watermarking, Digital Image Processing. Display Calibration, End User. Dye Transfer Printing Technology, Display Technology. Electroencephalogram (EEG) Topography, Imaging Techniques Systems. Electromagnetic Radiation and Interactions with Matter, Spectroscopy. Electron Microscopes, Imaging Techniques Systems. Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) Imaging, Imaging Techniques Systems. Electrophotography, Imaging Techniques Systems. Endoscopy, Imaging Techniques Systems. Feature Measurement, Digital Image Processing. Feature Recognition Object Classification , Digital Image Processing. Field Emission Display Panels, Display Technology. Flow Imaging, Imaging Techniques Systems. Force Imaging, Imaging Techniques Systems. Foundations of Morphological Image Processing, Digital Image Processing. Gravitation Imaging, Imaging Techniques Systems. Gravure Multi--Copy Printing, Display Technology. Ground Penetrating Radar, Imaging Techniques Systems. High Resolution Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy Imaging, Imaging Techniques Systems. High Speed Photographic Imaging, Imaging Techniques Systems. Holography, Imaging Techniques Systems. Human Visual System -- Color Visual Processing, End User. Human Visual System -- Image Formation, End User. Human Visual System -- Spatial Visual Processing, End User. Image Formation, Image Formation. Image Processing Techniques, Digital Image Processing. Image Quality Metrics, End User. Image Search and Retrieval Strategies, Digital Image Processing. Image Threshold and Segmentation, Digital Image Processing. Imaging Applied to the Geologic Sciences, Imaging Applications. Imaging Science in Art Conservation, Imaging Applications. Imaging Science in Astronomy, Imaging Applications. Imaging Science in Biochemistry, Imaging Applications. Imaging Science in Forensics & Criminology, Imaging Applications. Imaging Science in Medicine, Imaging Applications. Imaging Science in Meteorology, Imaging Applications. Imaging Science in Overhead Surveillance, Imaging Applications. Infrared Thermography , Imaging Techniques & Systems. Ink Jet Printing for Organic Electroluminescent Display, Display Technology. Instant Photography, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Laser--Induced Fluorescence Imaging, Imaging Techniques & Systems. LIDAR, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Lightning Locator, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Liquid Crystal Display Technology, Display Technology. Magnetic Field Imaging, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Magnetospheric Imaging, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Motion Picture Photography, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Neutron Imaging, Radiography, and CT, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Optical Image Formation, Image Formation. Optical Microscopy, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Over the horizon (OTH) Radar, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Particle Detector Technology for Imaging, Detector Technology. Photoconductor Detector Technology, Detector Technology. Photodetectors, Detector Technology. Photographic Color Display Technology, Display Technology. RF Magnetic Field Mapping, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Scanning Acoustic Microscopy, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Silver Halide Detector Technology, Detector Technology. Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), Imaging Techniques & Systems. Stereo & 3D Display Technologies, Display Technology. Still Photography, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Television Broadcast Transmission Standards, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Terahertz Electric Field Imaging, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Tomographic Image Formation Techniques, Image Formation. Ultrasound Imaging, Imaging Techniques & Systems. Video Recording, Display Technology. Wavelet Transforms, Digital Image Processing. Weather Radar, Imaging Techniques & Systems. X--Ray Fluorescence Imaging , Imaging Techniques & Systems. X--Ray Telescope, Imaging Techniques & Systems.

Unique features of optical scanning, single fiber endoscopy.

Abstract: Background and Objective To advance the field of minimally invasive medical procedures, an ideal endoscope should provide high-resolution images with variable magnification from an ultra-thin package, while adding depth cues and integrating optical diagnoses and therapies. Satisfying all these requirements is extremely difficult using commercial endoscopes. A new imaging technology is introduced that uses directed laser illumination, which is scanned at the distal end of a flexible endoscope. Study Design/Materials and Methods A singlemode optical fiber is driven in vibratory resonance using a piezoelectric actuator. The emitted laser light is scanned in two-dimensions over test specimens. Digital images are constructed by detecting optical power one pixel at a time. Results Unique features of the fiber scanning scope are rapidly changing magnification, enhanced topographic detail, and concurrent fluorescence imaging, which are demonstrated and discussed. Conclusion This fiber scanning scope has the potential for pixel-accurate delivery of high quality laser radiation, allowing the future integration of imaging with diagnosis and therapy. Lasers Surg. Med. 30:177-183, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Molecular-genetic imaging: a nuclear medicine-based perspective.

Abstract: Molecular imaging is a relatively new discipline, which developed over the past decade, initially driven by in situ reporter imaging technology. Noninvasive in vivo molecular-genetic imaging developed more recently and is based on nuclear (positron emission tomography [PET], gamma camera, autoradiography) imaging as well as magnetic resonance (MR) and in vivo optical imaging. Molecular-genetic imaging has its roots in both molecular biology and cell biology, as well as in new imaging technologies. The focus of this presentation will be nuclear-based molecular-genetic imaging, but it will comment on the value and utility of combining different imaging modalities. Nuclear-based molecular imaging can be viewed in terms of three different imaging strategies: (1) "indirect" reporter gene imaging; (2) "direct" imaging of endogenous molecules; or (3) "surrogate" or "bio-marker" imaging. Examples of each imaging strategy will be presented and discussed. The rapid growth of in vivo molecular imaging is due to the established base of in vivo imaging technologies, the established programs in molecular and cell biology, and the convergence of these disciplines. The development of versatile and sensitive assays that do not require tissue samples will be of considerable value for monitoring molecular-genetic and cellular processes in animal models of human disease, as well as for studies in human subjects in the future. Noninvasive imaging of molecular-genetic and cellular processes will complement established ex vivo molecular-biological assays that require tissue sampling, and will provide a spatial as well as a temporal dimension to our understanding of various diseases and disease processes.

Three-dimensional ultrasound experience in obstetrics.

Abstract: Purpose of review Three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound is a natural development of the imaging technology. Fast computers are essential to enable 3D and four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound pictures. A short review of the technical points and clinical aspects is presented. Our purpose is to acquaint the reader with the possibilities of this new technology and to increase awareness of its present clinical usefulness. A short review of technical information is provided. Recent findings The advantages of 3D and 4D ultrasound in certain areas are unequivocal. Its use in the workup of fetal anomalies involving the face, limbs, thorax, spine and the central nervous system are already applied by most centers. Recent findings The use of this technology in applying color Doppler, in guiding needles for different puncture procedures as well in evaluating the fetal heart are under close research scrutiny. The bonding effect between the parents and their future offspring is becoming evident as 3D ultrasound is used. Consulting specialists understand fetal pathology better and can better plan postnatal interventions. 4D or real time 3D ultrasound was developed and is expected to achieve new meaning with the planned introduction of electronic transducer multilinear arrays. Summary 3D ultrasound is an extremely promising imaging tool to image the fetus. In spite of the scant outcome studies the potential of 3D ultrasound is understood by a large number of obstetricians, maternal fetal specialists and imaging specialists.

Study Design for Concurrent Development, Assessment, and Implementation of New Diagnostic Imaging Technology

Abstract: With current constraints on health care resources and emphasis on value for money, new diagnostic imaging technologies must be assessed and their value demonstrated. The state of the art in the field of diagnostic imaging technology assessment advocates a hierarchical step-by-step approach. Although rigorous, such a hierarchical assessment is time-consuming, and, given the current rapid advances in technology, results are often too late to influence management and policy decisions. The purpose of this article is to discuss a study design in which development, assessment, and implementation of new diagnostic imaging technology take place concurrently in one integrated process. An empirically based pragmatic study design is proposed for imaging technology assessment. To minimize bias and enable comparison with current technology, a randomized controlled design is used whenever feasible and ethical. Outcome measures should reflect the clinical decision-making process based on imaging information and acceptan...

18 – Imaging Brain Function with Positron Emission Tomography

Abstract: This chapter describes the basic principles of positron emission tomography (PET), discusses the production and characteristics of commonly employed PET tracers and probes, examines the design and performance of modern PET scanners, and discusses the process of image reconstruction and the use of tracer kinetic models to turn a time sequence of PET images into quantitative regional biological assays. PET—a powerful noninvasive imaging tool—embodies the modern concept of biological imaging, bringing together the highly specific assays of the biological sciences with sophisticated imaging technology. PET images can be fully quantitative, such that there is a linear relationship between the concentration of the labeled imaging probe and the count density measured in the PET images. The absolute concentration can then be determined by cross calibration to a known source. In order to make PET images fully quantitative, a number of correction procedures must be carefully applied. The largest of the correction factors is that required to correct for gamma-ray attenuation by the tissue. An important aspect of PET is the ability to monitor the spatial distribution of the imaging probe or tracer as a function of time. The rate of accumulation or clearance of the probe contains information about the rate of the biological processes or the characteristics of the molecular target involved. Advances in PET instrumentation and technology continue at a remarkable pace and have brought about an order of magnitude improvement in the resolving power and sensitivity of PET scanners over the past several years, resulting in a significantly clearer picture of the brain.

Characterizing arterial plaque with optical coherence tomography.

Abstract: Many imaging technologies have been pivotal in the reduction of mortality associated with coronary artery disease over the last 50 years. However, there are several areas where coronary disease could benefit from high-resolution imaging. Recently, optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been introduced for micron scale intravascular imaging. OCT is analogous to ultrasonography, measuring the intensity of back-reflected infrared light rather than sound. First, its resolution, at 4 to 20 microm, is higher than that of any currently available imaging technology. Second, acquisition rates are near video speed. Third, unlike ultrasonography, OCT catheters consist of simple fiber optics and contain no transducers within their frame. This makes imaging catheters both inexpensive and small, the current smallest cross-sectional diameter being 0.014 inches. Fourth, OCT systems are compact and portable. Finally, it can be combined with a range of spectroscopic techniques. This article reviews the application of OCT to intracoronary imaging.

Millimetre wave aviation security scanner

Abstract: Trials of a real time millimetre wave imager have recently been conducted in the UK. The trials were conducted at London Gatwick airport and QinetiQ Farnborough. The aims of the trials were to evaluate passenger reaction to being screened by a millimetre wave imager, to assess the operational issues of using imaging technology to screen passengers in central search areas of airports, and to quantify the performance of the system using professional screeners who were trained to look for specific threat items. The results of the trial have suggested that public reaction to the possible introduction of the technology in UK airports has been favourable, and that the performance of the imager in detecting specific threat items concealed on passengers such as metal and ceramic weapons has been very encouraging. The performance of the system in detecting plastic explosives and more difficult threats is lower than that of ceramic and other weapons, but the overall performance achieved represents an important step forward in developing a reliable, safe and convenient means of screening passengers and staff in airports and other public places, where security is a prime concern.

Diffusion-weighted MRI as a screening tool of stroke in the ED.

Abstract: This report describes a novel imaging technology for the evaluation of stroke patients. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging can visualize hyperacute ischemic stroke which cannot be seen on computed tomography; moreover, it only takes few minutes to scan. We believe that diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, rather than routine computed tomography, should be considered when the emergency physician evaluates a patient with acute ischemic stroke.

A virtual environment for surgical image guidance in intraoperative MRI

Abstract: Intraoperative MRI has recently entered the operating room as a new imaging modality. Customized visualization systems might further facilitate the use of this imaging technology. A visualization system for use in the interventional MRI has been developed, providing a virtual environment for surgical navigation using real-time images and for controlling the scanner. The visualization system has customized features for certain clinical applications. A training and testing facility has also been established. The introduction of the visualization system in the interventional MRI overcame several ambiguities and inconsistencies that were previously present, and resulted in a more transparent man-machine interface approach. A pilot study using the software to place cryoprobes in an animal liver showed promising results. Augmentation of real-time MR images with 3D rendering and customized navigation features opens new possibilities in intraoperative MRI. The described system can also be extended to other intraoperative imaging modalities.

Applied imaging technology

Abstract: This book, originally designed to be the notes to part 1 of the diploma course of the then RACR, has become a valuable reference, not only for budding radiologists, but also for medical physicists. There has always been a wealth of detail, including much which is not easily found in the common textbooks. The title is something of a misnomer, as the majority of the content is concerned with x-ray imaging. MRI, nuclear medicine and ultrasound are included, but the authors make no pretence to cover these topics as thoroughly. They are however kept up to date, and cover the RANZCR syllabus. The book is made up of 31 chapters, grouped into 6 logical parts – radiation biology and safety, basic physics of x-ray imaging, technology of x-ray imaging, magnetic resonance imagine, fundamentals of nuclear medicine, and ultrasound imaging. The 3 and now 4 editions have been reworked to be more like a textbook than a set of notes, although the primary purpose for the book remains the same. The 4 edition contains substantial revisions where technology has rapidly changed, in particular in digital imaging in all its forms, with a 15% overall increase in size. Multislice CT, CT fluoroscopy and computed and direct radiography are all new inclusions in an almost new digital radiography chapter. The currency is well illustrated by browsing through the references UNSCEAR 2000, ICRP Report 84, and a number of 2001 publications are included. The chapter covering protection of the patient and worker has been significantly reworked to reflect the increasing importance of this aspect as the use of radiology (especially CT) grows. The production values of the book have also been improved, and images are included for the first time. The soft cover binding has changed from glued to spiral, making it much easier to use. The publishing history gives a clue as to the frequency and timeliness of new editions – the first edition was only published in 1993. Many of the standard hardback texts are much slower to be updated, and this is one of the very few to be regularly revised (with revisions in the life of each edition as well). Like painting the Sydney Harbour Bridge, each new edition only appears to mean that the next revision is begun. One wonders how long the authors can keep it up. As in the previous edition, a large number (470) of searching multiple choice questions are included, grouped at the end of each part. No answers are provided, however with the publication of this edition, the reader may go to a web site at RMIT (www.life.rmit.edu.au/mrs/kpm/AIT/purchase.html), and test himor herself online with a selection of the questions. Purchasing information is also provided. Probably, given its original intended purpose, the highest praise I can give this book is to say that, if the trainee radiologist absorbed and understood all the content, there may be little need for medical physicists in radiology! Fortunately they concentrate on the medical aspects. As it is, this has long been one of the most used texts on my own bookshelf, and the new edition is welcomed. I can highly recommend it to both the reader who wishes to know more about the physics of imaging, and the regular practitioner in radiology physics.

Assessing diagnostic accuracy in veterinary imaging.

Abstract: With continued specialization in diagnostic radiology and imaging technology, it increasingly becomes important for diagnostic radiologists to focus on the science of diagnosing disease. Imaging modalities provide a means to examine patients; however, it is the detection of imaging signs (Roentgen signs) that constitutes imaging tests. All tests are subject to error, and the degree of error cannot be determined by clinical experience alone. Therefore, measurements of diagnostic accuracy are important. Accuracy estimates are greatly influenced by selection of the decision criterion and sample population. This article reviews some of the principles for assessing diagnostic accuracy in medical imaging, which is helpful for deciding what tests to perform and how to interpret results once a test has been performed.

Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance: An Inflection Point in Neurosurgery?

Abstract: :The progress of clinical neurologic sciences has depended on accurate cerebral localization and imaging technology. Over the past century, advances in cerebral imaging, including contrast angiography, pneumoencephalography, and, in more recent decades, computed tomography and magnetic reson

Advances in infrared sensor technology and systems

Abstract: The imaging technology available for medical research and diagnosis has progressed from early systems using single detector scanners to full two-dimensional arrays. The initial emphasis on visible and low light level arrays has expanded dramatically to include the long wave infrared with spectral cut-off as long as twenty-five microns, the short-wave infrared and multispectral arrays. Image enhancement features, originally controlled manually at each channel, are now integral to the sensor. Advanced signal processing, both at the output of the array and at the pixel level, enhances image contrast, automatically recognizes features and controls gain globally and in local areas. Advances in detector and packaging technology have significantly reduced sensor size and weight, opening new applications for imaging technology previously restricted to large platforms. In addition, the innovations in detector and electronics technology have had a large impact on cost reduction, making high performance imaging systems available to a wide variety of users. These significant advances in imaging technology can lead the way to a new era in affordable medical imaging systems, widely available in both the laboratory and physician's office.

Imaging in the Dialysis Patient: Renal Imaging in Patients Requiring Renal Replacement Therapy

Abstract: Recent advances in imaging technology and interventional radiologic procedures have resulted in an increased variety of radiological techniques that can be used to assess patients who present with renal failure and require renal replacement therapy. This chapter provides an overview of the relative strengths and weaknesses of the available imaging methods. In particular, it covers the expanding role of the cross-sectional, noninvasive, multiplanar imaging techniques such as gray-scale and Doppler ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and angiography (MRA), and nonenhanced helical or multislice computed tomography (CT). These imaging methods are increasingly replacing those used in the past, such as the conventional radiographic urogram, which requires a high dose of intravenous contrast media, and digital subtraction arteriography. The chapter also covers the radiologic investigation of complications of acquired renal cystic disease, including renal cell carcinoma, hemorrhage, cyst infection and rupture, and nephrolithiasis.

Preparing a business justification for going electronic.

Abstract: Exponential advances in the technology sector and computer industry have benefited the science and practice of radiology. Modalities such as digital radiography, computed radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, digital angiography, and gamma cameras are all capable of producing DICOM compliant images. Text can likewise be acquired using voice recognition technology (VRT) and efficiently rendered into a digital format. All of these digital data sets can subsequently be transferred over a network between machines for display and further manipulation on workstations. Large capacity archiving units are required to store these voluminous data sets. The enterprise components of radiology departments and imaging centers--radiology information systems (RIS) and picture archiving and communications systems (PACS)--have thus undergone a transition from hardcopy to softcopy. When preparing to make transition to a digital environment, the first step is introspective. A detailed SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis, with a focus on the status of "electronic preparedness," ensues. The next step in the strategic planning process is to formulate responses to the following questions: Will this technology acquisition provide sufficient value to my organization to justify the expense? Is there a true need for the new technology? What issues or problems does this technology address? What customer needs will this technology satisfy today and tomorrow? How will the organization's shareholders benefit from this technology? The answers to these questions and the questions that they in turn generate will stimulate the strategic planning process to define demands, investigate technology and investment options, identify resources and set goals. The mission of your radiology center will determine what you will demand from the electronic environment. All radiology practices must address the demand of clinical service. Additional demands based on your mission may include education and research. The investigation of options is probably the most time consuming portion of the analysis. It is in this stage where the system architecture is drafted. Important contributions must be solicited from your information technology division, radiologists and other physicians, hospital administration and any other service where the use of imaging technology information is required and beneficial. Vendors and consultants can be extremely valuable in generating workflow diagrams, which include imaging acquisition components and imaging display components. A request for proposal (RFP) may facilitate this step. A detailed inventory of imaging equipment, imaging equipment locations and use, imaging equipment DICOM compatibility, imaging equipment upgrade requirements, reading locations and user locations must be obtained and confirmed. It is a good idea to take a careful inventory of your resources during the process of investigating system architecture and financial options. An often-ignored issue is the human resource allocation that is required to implement, maintain and upgrade the system. These costs must be estimated and included in the financial analysis. Further, to predict the finances of your operation in the future, a solid understanding of your center's historical financial data is required. This will enable you to make legitimate and reasonable financial calculations using incremental volumes. The radiology center must formulate and articulate discrete clinical and business goals for the transition to a digital environment that are consistent with the institutional or enterprise mission. Once goals are set, it is possible to generate a strategic plan. It is necessary to establish individual accountability for all aspects of the planning and implementation process. A realistic timetable should be implemented. Keep in mind that this is a dynamic process; technology is rapidly changing, as are clinical service demands and regulatory initiatives. It is therefore prudent to monitor the process, make appropriate revisions when necessary and address contingencies as they arise.

New 3D imaging sensor: gaining range and texture

Abstract: This article presents a new type of 3D color digital imaging system. First, we briefly introduce the current 3D imaging technologies: passive and active sensing. Second, a new type of 3D imaging system is introduced. Using this system, the shape of an object can be digitized and the texture of this object surface can also be gained simultaneously. The emphasis of the paper is put on the description of hardware design and software framework design of the system. The paper also presents the 3D digital image made on a human face as an experimental result. Then, the potential industrial applications such as reverse engineering, digitization of museum artifacts, inspection, biomedical imaging, home shopping, film-making and virtual reality, etc., are described. Finally, we make conclusion and future development on 3D imaging.

Molecular imaging: An old and new field connecting basic science and clinical medicine

Abstract: Combination of recent progress in imaging technology and molecular biology/gene technology has evolved a new field named "molecular imaging". It includes wide range of imaging technique from basic research to clinical practice. For basic researchers, we focused on the part of in vivo imaging in human, and introduce the recent progress of modern biomedical imaging, as a crossing point of basic science and clinical medicine.

Optical Coherence Tomography of the Breast: A Feasibility Study

Abstract: : Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is an emerging high-resolution imaging technology that can perform high resolution, real-time cross-sectional imaging of tissue. OCT can be used as a type of "optical biopsy" to perform minimally-invasive imaging up to a depth of 2-3 mm with transverse resolutions as high as 10 um in commercially available systems. OCT uses near-infrared light which can be used in fiber optic devices such as catheter probes and imaging needles. This novel imaging technology has the potential to improve cancer detection and diagnosis. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of applying OCT imaging to normal and pathologic human breast tissue, as well as other human tissues. OCT was used to image samples of breast tissue from core biopsy and surgical specimens. Architectural changes such as stromal hyperplasia and fat necrosis were detected with OCT. Normal lactiferous ducts were visible. However, normal glandular and ductal structure as well as pre-malignant and neoplastic epithelial changes did not have sufficient contrast to be consistently visible. We are currently improving OCT resolution and applying spectroscopic and microscopy techniques to enhance tissue contrast. These improvements should allow better visualization of micro structural features in normal and pathologic breast tissue. Studies were performed imaging other tissues with better defined architectural morphology including thyroid and lower GI tissues, and good correlation of OCT images and histology was obtained.

A virtual environment for navigating and controlling intraoperative magnetic resonance images

Abstract: Intra-operative MRI has recently entered the OR as a new imaging modality. Customised visualisation systems might further facilitate the use of this imaging technology. A visualisation system for use in the interventional MRI was made, providing a virtual environment for navigation in real-time images and for controlling the scanner. The visualisation system has customised features for certain clinical applications. A training-and testing facility was also assembled. The introduction of the visualisation system in the intervention MRI overcame several ambiguities and inconsistencies previously present, and resulted in a more transparent man-machine interface approach. Augmentation of real-time MR images with 3D rendering and customised navigation features opens new possibilities in intra-operative MRI. The described system might also be extended to other intra-operative imaging modalities.

Advanced Imaging Technology for Future Cancer Screening

Abstract: Recent advances in the field of radiology have revolutionized CT and MRI technology. There has been significant improvement not only in the speed of acquisition of images but also in the clarity and quality of images obtained. The newer techniques have shown promising results in the screening of several cancers, however, they are not currently utilized because of their high cost. The cost-effectiveness of these techniques need to be addressed before their implementation in the cancer screening.

Technical Principles of CT

Abstract: The first computed tomography (CT) systems, introduced in 1972, produced image slices which represent the distribution of the object’s X-ray attenuation in the image plane. Since then the progress to third generation fan beam geometry and continuous spiral scanning has changed CT from a sequential single-slice imaging technology to a continuous-volume imaging modality. The introduction of spiral acquisition in 1991 was a first breakthrough for CT in vascular diagnosis with contrast-enhanced CT angiography (CTA) examinations. A second major leap in CT technology came with the advent of multislice acquisition in 1998. This technology allows for almost isotropic three-dimensional (3D) spatial resolution, short examination times, and coverage of large volumes for CT angiographic imaging of the abdominal, cerebral, and peripheral vessels. Furthermore, very short image acquisition times due to increased gantry rotation speed in combination with ECG synchronization allow for diagnosis of the heart, the cardiovascular vessels, and the coronary arteries.