Cluster scanning in body CT.

Rapid, dynamic computed tomography (CT) is essential in scanning the body in order to maintain adequate contrast enhancement during the entire examination. In the case of the liver, this is most critical in order to complete scanning prior to the equilibrium phase when lesions are less conspicuous or may be missed entirely. This technical note describes the application of "cluster scanning" to conventional scanning in order to optimize body CT by decreasing the total exam time.