Deep learning-based algorithm vs. Virtual monoenergetic imaging and orthopedic metal artifact reduction

This study compared the image quality, metal artifacts, and diagnostic confidence of conventional CT images of unilateral total hip arthroplasty patients (THA) with deep learning-based metal artifact reduction (DL-MAR) to conventional CT and 130-keV monoenergetic images with and without orthopedic metal artifact reduction (O-MAR). They found that DL-MAR showed not only higher image quality but also diagnostic confidence and superior metal artifact reduction compared to conventional CT images and 130-keV monoenergetic images with and without O-MAR in unilateral THA patients.

Key points:

• Metal artifacts introduced by total hip arthroplasty hamper radiologic assessment on CT.
• A deep-learning algorithm (DL-MAR) was compared to dual-layer CT images with O-MAR.
• DL-MAR showed best image quality and diagnostic confidence.
• Highest contrast-to-noise ratios were observed on the DL-MAR images.

Article: Image quality and metal artifact reduction in total hip arthroplasty CT: deep learning-based algorithm versus virtual monoenergetic imaging and orthopedic metal artifact reduction

Authors: Mark Selles, Ruud H. H. Wellenberg, Derk J. Slotman, Ingrid M. Nijholt, Jochen A. C. van Osch, Kees F. van Dijke, Mario Maas & Martijn F. Boomsma