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01-01-2020 | Computed Tomography | Original Article

Comparison of different iterative CT reconstruction techniques and filtered back projection for assessment of the medial clavicular epiphysis in forensic age estimation

Authors: Magdalini Tozakidou, Ilze Apine, Kay U. Petersen, Julius Matthias Weinrich, Sebastian Schindera, Eilin Jopp-van Well, Klaus Püschel, Jochen Herrmann

Published in: International Journal of Legal Medicine | Issue 1/2020

Abstract

Purpose

To assess the impact of iterative reconstruction and filtered back projection (FBP) on image quality in computed tomography (CT)-based forensic age estimation of the medial clavicular epiphysis.

Methods and materials

CT of the clavicle was performed in 19 patients due to forensic reasons (70 mAs/140 kVp). Raw data were reconstructed with FBP and with an iterative algorithm at level 4 and 6. Clavicular ossification stage was determined by two radiologists in consensus, firstly on FBP reconstructed images and secondly after reviewing all reconstructions including iDose 4 and 6. In addition, the 3 reconstructions were compared regarding artefacts and delineation of the meta-/epiphyseal interface. Quantitative image noise was measured.

Results

Quantitative noise was lower in iDose 6 reconstructed images than in FBP (P < 0.042), but not significantly lower between iDose 4 and FBP (P = 0.127). Side by side comparison revealed lesser qualitative image noise on both iDose reconstructed images than for FBP. The meta-/epiphyseal interface delineation was rated better on both iDose levels than with FBP. In 3 of 19 patients, the clavicular ossification stage was reclassified after iterative reconstructions had been additionally reviewed.

Conclusion

Using iterative CT reconstruction algorithms, a reduction of image noise and an enhancement of image quality regarding the meta-/epiphyseal clavicular interface can be achieved. The study highlights the importance of image standardization as variation of reconstruction technique has impact on forensic age estimation.

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Title: Comparison of different iterative CT reconstruction techniques and filtered back projection for assessment of the medial clavicular epiphysis in forensic age estimation
Authors: Magdalini Tozakidou
Ilze Apine
Kay U. Petersen
Julius Matthias Weinrich
Sebastian Schindera
Eilin Jopp-van Well
Klaus Püschel
Jochen Herrmann
Publication date: 01-01-2020
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Computed Tomography
Computed Tomography
Published in: International Journal of Legal Medicine / Issue 1/2020
Print ISSN: 0937-9827
Electronic ISSN: 1437-1596
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00414-019-02214-x

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Comparison of different iterative CT reconstruction techniques and filtered back projection for assessment of the medial clavicular epiphysis in forensic age estimation

Abstract

Purpose

Methods and materials

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods and materials

Results

Conclusion

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