Evaluation of the Volume of Coronary Artery Calcification according to Various Kernels and iBHC Algorithm

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to measure whether the volume of calcium due to cardiac artery calcification changes by functions different from that of the kernel, and to improve the use of more accurate kernels and functions. A Somatom Force(Siemens Healthineers, Forchheim, Germany) was used as CT equipment. Based on the Sa36 kernel, the Agatston score and volumes of calcium with the Br32, Br36, and Br40 kernels were compared. In addition, variables were added to the Br36 kernel by applying the equipment's unique function, iBHC(Beam Hardening Correction). The image was analyzed using the calcium score function of Aquarius iNtusion Edition ver. 4.4.13 P6 software(Terarecon, California, USA). There was a statistically significant difference between the Sa36 kernel to which the iBHC algorithm was applied and the Agatston scores and volumes of the Br32, Br36, and Br40 kernels to which the iBHC algorithm was not applied. In addition, there was a statistically significant difference between the Sa36 kernel to which the iBHC algorithm was applied, the Br36 kernel to which the iBHC algorithm was applied, and the Agatston score and volume of the Br36 kernel to which the iBHC algorithm was not applied. As a result, it can be seen that the Agatston score and volume of calcium change with the change in the kernel and with the application of the iBHC algorithm. Protocol correction is essential for accurate diagnosis and differentiation of coronary artery disease. To this end, it is necessary to use intermediate-level kernels such as Sa36 kernels and to use careful iBHC algorithms.