A 3-D filtered-backprojection reconstruction algorithm for combined parallel- and cone-beam SPECT data

A three-dimensional (3D) weighted helical cone beam filtered backprojection (CB-FBP) algorithm (namely, original 3D weighted helical CB-FBP algorithm) has already been proposed to reconstruct images from the projection data acquired along a helical trajectory in angular ranges up to[0,2π]. However, an overscan is usually employed in the clinic to reconstruct tomographic images with superior noise characteristics at the most challenging anatomic structures, such as head and spine, extremity imaging, and CT angiography as well. To obtain the most achievable noise characteristics or dose efficiency in a helical overscan, we extended the 3D weighted helical CB-FBP algorithm to handle helical pitches that are smaller than1:1(namely extended 3D weighted helical CB-FBP algorithm). By decomposing a helical over scan with an angular range of[0,2π+Δβ]into a union of full scans corresponding to an angular range of[0,2π], the extended 3D weighted function is a summation of all 3D weighting functions corresponding to each full scan. An experimental evaluation shows that the extended 3D weighted helical CB-FBP algorithm can improve noise characteristics or dose efficiency of the 3D weighted helical CB-FBP algorithm at a helical pitch smaller than1:1, while its reconstruction accuracy and computational efficiency are maintained. It is believed that, such an efficient CB reconstruction algorithm that can provide superior noise characteristics or dose efficiency at low helical pitches may find its extensive applications in CT medical imaging.

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Nondestructive Inspection of Thin, Low-Z Samples using Multiplexed Compton Scatter Tomography

MRS Proceedings ◽

10.1557/proc-503-297 ◽

1997 ◽

Vol 503 ◽

Cited By ~ 1

Author(s):

B. L. Evans ◽

J. B. Martin ◽

L. W. Burggraf

Keyword(s):

Signal To Noise Ratio ◽

Reconstruction Algorithm ◽

Filtered Backprojection ◽

Line Broadening ◽

Compton Scatter ◽

X Ray ◽

Tomography System ◽

Transmission Computed Tomography ◽

High Purity Germanium ◽

Scattered Energy

ABSTRACTThe viability of a Compton scattering tomography system for nondestructively inspecting thin, low Z samples for corrosion is examined. This technique differs from conventional x-ray backscatter NDI because it does not rely on narrow collimation of source and detectors to examine small volumes in the sample. Instead, photons of a single energy are backscattered from the sample and their scattered energy spectra are measured at multiple detector locations, and these spectra are then used to reconstruct an image of the object. This multiplexed Compton scatter tomography technique interrogates multiple volume elements simultaneously. Thin samples less than 1 cm thick and made of low Z materials are best imaged with gamma rays at or below 100 keV energy. At this energy, Compton line broadening becomes an important resolution limitation. An analytical model has been developed to simulate the signals collected in a demonstration system consisting of an array of planar high-purity germanium detectors. A technique for deconvolving the effects of Compton broadening and detector energy resolution from signals with additive noise is also presented. A filtered backprojection image reconstruction algorithm with similarities to that used in conventional transmission computed tomography is developed. A simulation of a 360–degree inspection gives distortion-free results. In a simulation of a single-sided inspection, a 5 mm × 5 mm corrosion flaw with 50% density is readily identified in 1-cm thick aluminum phantom when the signal to noise ratio in the data exceeds 28.

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