Lower-radiation CT scans that still find problems
Diagnostic performance assessment and dose optimization using patient CT images: Application to deep-learning CT reconstruction and denoising technologies
This project uses real patient CT images and smart computer methods to lower radiation during CT scans while keeping images clear enough for doctors to spot disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11249565 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are using actual patient CT scans and advanced deep-learning image processing to make low-dose CT images look as clear as standard-dose images. They combine computer model observers with human reader studies to measure whether small or low-contrast findings (like liver lesions) remain visible after dose reductions. The team aims to create dose-setting rules that work across different scanner models and reconstruction methods so patients get the lowest safe radiation dose. The work builds on earlier phantom and reader studies and now incorporates real patient images to guide clinical protocols.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People scheduled for clinical CT scans who agree to let their images be used for research (or to be scanned with research-informed low-dose protocols) would be candidates.
Not a fit: Patients who need very high-detail or specialized high-dose CT exams (for example certain cardiac or acute trauma protocols) may not benefit from lower-dose methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could receive CT scans with substantially less radiation while maintaining accurate diagnosis.
How similar studies have performed: Prior iterative reconstruction methods improved image noise but only allowed modest true dose cuts (about 20–25%) without losing low-contrast lesion detectability, and deep-learning approaches are promising but not yet fully proven for safe large dose reductions.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mccollough, Cynthia H — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Mccollough, Cynthia H
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.