“Photon Counting Detector Computed Tomography in Pediatric Imaging: A Review of current literature and future directions”

Abstract The benefits of photon counting detector (PCD) computed tomography (CT) include improved spatial resolution, increased radiation dose efficiency, and the elimination of electronic noise. Unlike traditional energy-integrating-detector (EID) CT systems, photon counting detectors have inherent spectral capabilities, which support “always-on” dual energy and multi-energy imaging acquisition. PCD-CT directly converts X-ray photons into electrical signals and captures their individual energy levels. Current commercially available PCD-CT scanners, all from one manufacturer, include two models that incorporate dual-source geometry. This innovation is particularly advantageous for pediatric imaging by enabling rapid scans that reduce motion artifact and therefore the need for sedation and can now be combined in the current model with multi-energy imaging or ultra-high-resolution acquisition. This review article explores how the technical benefits of PCD CT improve the diagnostic quality of images and opens the field of pediatric radiology up to future opportunities for research and new applications.