Dose reduction of AI-based CT engine proves a game changer at Mid Cheshire

A deep learning reconstruction AI, built into an Aquilion One Genesis Edition CT scanner from Canon Medical Systems UK, is said to be delivering a ‘new era’ of patient imaging at Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

“Advanced deep learning reconstruction of clinical images using AiCE heralds a new era in CT. It enables phenomenal patient dose reduction at the same time as providing extremely high quality clinical images and all in a rapid time frame suitable for everyday clinical use,” said consultant radiologist Dr Richard Hawkins. “This goes far beyond model-based iterative reconstruction on CT and, as Canon Medical was first to innovate in this area, it offers the most mature system of this kind.

“The clinical images generated using AiCE are much more natural and acceptable in appearance to radiologists reporting on cases. Previously, with model-based iterative reconstruction, the images looked as if they had been painted with watercolours. This is a great improvement – once you see them you’ll never look back. As a department we have always been very proactive when it comes to keeping patient dose down and our experiences of using the system every day for inpatients and outpatients has exceeded our expectations.”

Lead picture: In front are advanced radiographer practitioner Justin Edwards, senior radiographer Sophie Vaux, consultant radiologist Dr Richard Hawkins and medical imaging assistant Mark Thompson. Behind them are medical imaging assistant Tamzin Culverhouse, senior radiographer Alex Finnie, consultant radiologist Matt Simpson and Canon Medical Systems UK account manager Barnaby Harrison. (Picture taken prior to social distancing and the requirement to wear face masks).

Published on page 10 of the August 2020 issue of RAD Magazine.