# How we do it: artery of Adamkiewicz evaluation by CTA in children

## TL;DR

This paper discusses a method to better visualize the artery of Adamkiewicz in children using CT angiography to reduce spinal cord ischemia risks.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a technique using increased tube current and low kV to enhance artery visualization while following radiation safety principles.

## Key findings

- Increasing tube current and using a low kV of 70 improves visualization of the artery of Adamkiewicz.
- Maintaining a low kV and raising the Hounsfield unit trigger threshold ensures a diagnostic study while adhering to ALARA principles.

## Abstract

Identifying the artery of Adamkiewicz (AoA) is essential for minimizing the risk of spinal cord ischemia that can result from injury or displacement during aortopexy. A pre-operative CT angiogram (CTA) is commonly requested; however, locating the artery can be challenging due to its small size and variable course. To enhance the visualization of the artery of Adamkiewicz, it is effective to increase the tube current while maintaining a low kV of 70 and raising the Hounsfield unit (HU) trigger threshold. This method adheres to the As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) principle, ensuring a reliably diagnostic study.