Line-scanned projection radiographic systems provide improved detection of low contrast objects by reducing scattered radiation and through the use of wide dynamic range detectors. However, because of the narrow source collimation required for line scanning, the maximum photon flux achievable with scanned radiography is limited. Experiments have been conducted to determine the relationship between source collimation, radiation dose, spatial resolution, and low contrast detectability using a General Electric CT/T 8800 computed tomographic scanner modified for scanned projection radiography. A contrast/detail phantom was scanned using three different source collimators and at different radiation exposures. Because the source collimation influences both the photon flux and spatial resolution, optimal collimation will depend upon the subject thickness and desired contrast and spatial resolution. Results are presented to show these tradeoffs as well as compare the performance of scanned projection radiography to conventional film radiography.

Date Published: 18 August 1980
PDF: 6 pages
Proc. SPIE 0233, Application of Optical Instrumentation in Medicine VIII, (18 August 1980); doi: 10.1117/12.958902

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 0233:
Application of Optical Instrumentation in Medicine VIII
Joel E. Gray; William R. Hendee; Andrew G. Haus; William S. Properzio, Editor(s)