Combined multi-kernel chest computed tomography images optimized for depicting both lung and soft tissue

PurposeTo evaluate the quality of our improved multi-kernel chest computed tomography (CT) images.MethodsA random sample of 50 normal patients was retrospectively selected from those who underwent chest CT scans between January 2010 and July 2010. Normal lung structures were divided into six categories, and two radiologists independently compared with lung images.ResultsThe improved multi-kernel images were displayed identically to soft tissue images on soft tissue window settings and were evaluated as equal to lung images on lung window settings.ConclusionsThis improved multi-kernel technique required fewer stored images and simplified examinations of chest CT.