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A review of split-bolus single-pass CT in the assessment of trauma patients

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to review and compare the image quality and radiation dose of split-bolus single-pass computed tomography(CT) in the assessment of trauma patients in comparison to standard multi-phase CT techniques.

Methods

An online electronic database was searched using the MESH terms “split-bolus,” “dual phase,” and “single pass.” Inclusion criteria required the research article to compare a split contrast bolus protocol in a single-pass scan in the assessment of trauma patients. Studies using split-bolus CT technique in non-traumatic injury assessment were excluded. Six articles met the inclusion criteria.

Conclusions

Parenchymal and vascular image qualities, as well as subjective image quality assessments, were equal or superior in comparison to non-split-bolus multi-phase trauma CT protocols. Split-bolus single-pass CT decreased radiation exposure in all studies. Further research is required to determine the superior split-bolus protocol and the specificity and sensitivity of detecting blunt cerebrovascular injury screening, splenic parenchymal vascular lesions, and characterization of pelvic vascular extravasation.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, Australia

    Cassandra Jeavons & Craig Hacking

  2. Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands

    Ludo F. Beenen

  3. University of Washington, Washington, USA

    Martin L. Gunn

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  1. Cassandra Jeavons
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  2. Craig Hacking
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  3. Ludo F. Beenen
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Correspondence to Cassandra Jeavons.

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Author Dr. Martin Gunn contributes to Research Support for Philips Healthcare, USA. The other authors have no conflict of interest to declare.

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Jeavons, C., Hacking, C., Beenen, L.F. et al. A review of split-bolus single-pass CT in the assessment of trauma patients. Emerg Radiol 25, 367–374 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10140-018-1591-1

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