What is quantitative computer tomography?

Quantitative Computer tomography is a form of medical imaging in which data from a series of X-ray images create a two- or three-dimensional model of the body. In general, computer tomography (CT) refers to the practice of using this type of X -ray image to create a more complete image. The term "quantitative computer tomography" often the abbreviation QCT distinguishes the type of analysis used in this method. Quantitative computer tomography is most common in bone densitometry, measurement of mineral bone density (BMD), but also has other applications.

in quantitative computer tomography of the patient or subject to place part of the body to be scanned into the CT scanner. Most QCT includes a spine or limb like forearm. In spinal scans, the patient or subject is located inside the scanner. In the peripheral quantitative computer tomography (PQCT), the patient or the forearm subject is placed in a smaller scanner when sitting or standing.

CT scanner contains an X -ray tubeCI and a sensor that rotates around the body in a circular or spiral pattern. The X -ray device takes a number of pictures of the body part and then transmits them to the computer. Special QCT software analyzes images and creates a model of scanned areas. This image may be three -dimensional or two -dimensional, depending on the scanner and the scan's target.

The primary difference between quantitative computer tomography and other forms of computer tomography is in the analysis performed by a computer. In most computer tomography, this software creates a composite visual image for a physician or research worker who needs to be examined. The purpose of this type of visual examination is to detect fractures, lesions or other symptoms in the scanned bone or soft tissue. QCT takes the data provided by the scanner and uses it to generate numeric values ​​for the bundle, weight and density of the bone.

Quantitative Computer Tomography has a number of outtthrow compared to other forms of bone density measurement. One of the most important is its ability to distinguish between cortical bone, which lines the outer side of bones and trabecular bones, softer tissue that forms the center of the bone. Trabecular bone is much more metabolically more active than cortical bone, which means that two types of bones are replaced by different speeds. As a result, two types of bones will show different rates of changes in the density of bone minerals.