This study assessed image quality and radiation dose of multidetector computed tomography (CT) examination using a standard protocol and a low-voltage protocol.

Patients requiring contrast-enhanced abdominal CT examination were randomly assigned to two groups with different voltage protocols: (i) 120 kV; (ii) an automated attenuation-based tube potential optimization mode (CARE kV). The volume CT dose index (CTDI_vol) and dose length product (DLP) were recorded. Image quality was semiquantitatively assessed by two blinded radiologists using a five-point scale.

There were 39 patients in the 120 kV group and 50 patients in the CARE kV group. There was no obvious difference in image quality score between the groups. CARE kV resulted in a voltage reduction to 100 kV in 45 patients and to 80 kV in five patients. CTDI_vol and DLP were significantly lower with CARE kV than with the 120 kV protocol.

The use of CARE kV reduces radiation dose with no loss of image quality compared with a standard 120 kV protocol.