Nov. 13, 2024 – A recent study has demonstrated the value of the single-exposure dual-energy X-ray detector in advancing cardiovascular risk assessment.
Published in the Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal, the paper, “Opportunistic Identification of Coronary Artery Calcium and Valve/Vascular Calcifications on Chest X-ray: Improvement with Single-Exposure Dual-Energy Imaging,” establishes the potential of single-exposure dual-energy imaging in detecting coronary artery calcifications (CAC).
With improved accuracy over conventional X-rays, the dual-energy X-ray technology has the ability to highlight soft tissues in addition to bone, leading to improved detection in different structures of the body. CAC detection is crucial for assessing cardiovascular risk, as CAC presence strongly correlates with coronary artery disease and related complications.
Conducted at University Health Network, Dr. Patrik Rogalla’s research indicates that single exposure dual-energy imaging detects more CAC compared to traditional X-ray methods. This represents a possible promising, cost-effective option for early intervention in cardiovascular risk management.
Traditional X-ray detectors use one exposure to radiation to create one image, a digital radiograph. KA Imaging’s Reveal 35C, however, uses the same single X-ray exposure at the same dose to create three distinct images, a regular DR image, a soft tissue image, and a bone image. This patented technology is called SpectralDR. Its optimized radiation use also allows for lateral imaging, making it easier to see behind the heart.
In this study, researchers observed 61 bone marrow transplant patients selected for their higher cardiac complication risk. Each patient received both a dual-energy chest X-ray and a low-dose chest CT, considered to be the reference standard for CAC detection, for comparison. Two experienced radiologists independently assessed the images. Results showed that dual-energy imaging detected CAC with higher diagnostic confidence than the traditional X-ray.
According to the study authors, “The single-exposure, dual-energy chest X-ray has shown improved detection of both calcium deposits in the heart’s arteries, as well as valve and vascular calcifications – both indicators of a higher risk for heart disease – when compared to conventional X-ray imaging.” They suggest that “the initial X-ray finding may help clinicians with assessing risk earlier, and guide additional testing if clinically warranted, all leading to improved risk management for patients at risk of heart disease and/or a cardiac event.”
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March 20, 2026 
