Incremental Benefit of Maximum-Intensity-Projection Images on Observer Detection of Small Pulmonary Nodules Revealed by Multidetector CT

Abstract
OBJECTIVE. Our purpose was to assess the incremental effect of maximum-intensity-projection (MIP) image processing on the ability of various observers to detect small (p < 0.001) and junior reviewer detection of peripheral nodules (p < 0.001). MIP slabs also reduced the effects of reviewer experience, particularly for peripheral nodules. CONCLUSION. MIP processing reduces the number of overlooked small nodules, particularly in the central lung. Observer nodule detection remains imperfect even when lesions are clearly depicted on images.