Dual-Energy and Spectral CT: Technical Foundations, Clinical Protocols, and Emerging Applications

Dual-energy and spectral computed tomography have substantially expanded the diagnostic capability of CT by enabling material decomposition, virtual monochromatic imaging, and iodine quantification. This chapter presents a thorough review of the technical principles underlying these systems, compares vendor-specific implementations, and comprehensively evaluates their clinical utility across emergency radiology, oncologic staging, vascular imaging, and musculoskeletal assessment.