A simulation framework for pre-clinical studies on dose and image quality: Concept and first validation

Kristien Smans, Herman Pauwels, Frank Rogge, Lara Struelens, Octavian Dragusin, Filip Vanhavere, Hilde Bosmans

    Research outputpeer-review

    Abstract

    Purpose: The purposes of the study were to set-up and validate a simulation framework for dose and image quality optimization studies. In a first phase we have evaluated whether CDRAD images as obtained with computed radiography plates could be simulated. Material and Methods: The Monte Carlo method is a numerical method that can be used to simulate radiation transport. It is in diagnostic radiology often used in dosimetry, but in present study it is used to simulate X-ray images. With the Monte Carlo software, MCNPX, the successive steps in die imaging chain were simulated: the X-ray beam, the attenuation and scatter process in a test object and image generation by an ideal detector. Those simulated images were further modified for specific properties of CR imaging systems. The signal-transferproperties were used to convert the simulated images into the proper grey scale. To account for resolution properties the simulated images were convolved with the point spread function of the CR systems. In a last phase, noise, based on noise power spectrum (NPS) measurements, was added to the image. In this study, we simulated X-ray images of the CDRAD contrast-detail phantom. Those simulated images, modified for the CR-system, were compared with real X-ray images of the CDRAD phantom. All images were scored by computer readings. Results: First results confirm that realistic CDRAD images can be simulated and that reading results of series of simulated and real images have the same tendency. The simulations also show that white noise has a large influence on image quality and CDRAD analyses.

    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationMedical Imaging 2008
    Subtitle of host publicationPhysics of Medical Imaging
    Place of PublicationBellingham, WA, United States
    Pages1-11
    Number of pages11
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 18 Mar 2008
    Event2008 - MI08 - SPIE Medical Imaging: The international society for optics and photonics - Town & Country Resort and Convention Center, San Diego, CA
    Duration: 16 Feb 200821 Feb 2008

    Publication series

    NameProgress in Biomedical Optics and Imaging - Proceedings of SPIE
    Volume6913
    ISSN (Print)1605-7422

    Conference

    Conference2008 - MI08 - SPIE Medical Imaging
    Country/TerritoryUnited States
    CitySan Diego, CA
    Period2008-02-162008-02-21

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
    • Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
    • Biomaterials
    • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging

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