Multi-detector CT imaging: impact of virtual tube current reduction and sparse sampling on detection of vertebral fractures.

• MDCT with a reduction of projection numbers of 50% still showed high diagnostic accuracy without any missed vertebral fractures. • Clinically acceptable determination of vertebral fracture age was possible in MDCT with a reduction of projection numbers of 75%. • With sparse sampling, higher reductions in radiation exposure can be achieved without compromised image or diagnostic quality in routine MDCT of the spine as compared to MDCT with reduced tube currents.