Iterative reconstruction in image space (IRIS) in cardiac computed tomography: initial experience

Improvements in image quality in cardiac computed tomography may be achieved through iterative image reconstruction techniques. We evaluated the ability of Iterative Reconstruction in Image Space (IRIS) reconstruction to reduce image noise and improve subjective image quality. 55 consecutive patients undergoing coronary CT angiography to rule out coronary artery stenosis were included. A dual source CT system and standard protocols were used. Images were reconstructed using standard filtered back projection and IRIS. Image noise, attenuation within the coronary arteries, contrast, signal to noise and contrast to noise parameters as well as subjective classification of image quality (using a scale with four categories) were evaluated and compared between the two image reconstruction protocols. Subjective image quality (2.8 +/- 0.4 in filtered back projection and 2.8 +/- 0.4 in iterative reconstruction) and the number of evaluable segments per patient 14.0 +/- 1.2 in filtered back projection and 14.1 +/- 1.1 in iterative reconstruction) were not significant different between the two methods. However iterative reconstruction had a lower image noise (22.6 +/- 4.5 HU vs. 28.6 +/- 5.1 HU) and higher signal to noise and image to noise ratios in the proximal coronary arteries. IRIS reduces image noise and contrast-to-noise ratio in coronary CT angiography, thus providing potential for reducing radiation exposure.