Optimization-based scatter estimation using semi-transparent beam absorber array

To correct the scatter in cone beam CT, an optimization-based scatter estimation method (OPMSE) is proposed. Like the previous Fourier-based primary modulation method (FPMSE), semi-transparent beam absorber array (SBAA) is placed between the X-ray source and the imaging target, thus projection data behind the absorber can still be obtained, which is meaningful for dose saving and image quality improving. In the proposed algorithm, scatter is estimated by solving an optimization problem, which makes use of the prior information that primary and scatter are both smooth not only in each frame, but also between adjacent frames. Moreover, an edge-preserving weighting is incorporated to prevent the over-smoothing of structures in the primary signal. The new algorithm is robust that various patterns of modulator can be applied. Simulation and physical experiments demonstrated the good performance of OPMSE in scatter removing.

[1]  N. R. Bennett,et al.  Scatter correction method for x-ray CT using primary modulation: phantom studies. , 2010, Medical physics.

[2]  Horst Aichinger,et al.  Radiation Exposure and Image Quality in X-Ray Diagnostic Radiology , 2004 .

[3]  Ruola Ning,et al.  X-ray scatter correction algorithm for cone beam CT imaging. , 2004, Medical physics.

[4]  V F Cassola,et al.  FASH and MASH: female and male adult human phantoms based on polygon mesh surfaces: I. Development of the anatomy , 2010, Physics in medicine and biology.

[5]  Klaus Klingenbeck,et al.  Erratum: "A general framework and review of scatter correction methods in x-ray cone beam CT. Part 1: Scatter Compensation Approaches" [Med. Phys. 38(7), 4296-4311 (2011)]. , 2011, Medical physics.

[6]  Lei Zhu,et al.  X-ray scatter correction for cone-beam CT using moving blocker array , 2005, SPIE Medical Imaging.

[7]  Lei Zhu,et al.  Scatter Correction Method for X-Ray CT Using Primary Modulation: Theory and Preliminary Results , 2006, IEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging.

[8]  Jeffrey A. Fessler.  Penalized weighted least-squares image reconstruction for positron emission tomography , 1994, IEEE Trans. Medical Imaging.

[9]  Ken D. Sauer,et al.  A local update strategy for iterative reconstruction from projections , 1993, IEEE Trans. Signal Process..

[10]  Klaus Klingenbeck,et al.  A general framework and review of scatter correction methods in x-ray cone-beam computerized tomography. Part 1: Scatter compensation approaches. , 2011, Medical physics.

[11]  Qiong Xu,et al.  Projection correlation based view interpolation for cone beam CT: primary fluence restoration in scatter measurement with a moving beam stop array , 2010, Physics in medicine and biology.

[12]  Luo Ouyang,et al.  Effects of the penalty on the penalized weighted least-squares image reconstruction for low-dose CBCT. , 2011, Physics in medicine and biology.

[13]  Max A. Viergever,et al.  Mutual-information-based registration of medical images: a survey , 2003, IEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging.

[14]  Jonas Lippuner,et al.  Epp: A C++ EGSnrc user code for x-ray imaging and scattering simulations. , 2011, Medical physics.

[15]  L. Xing,et al.  Iterative image reconstruction for CBCT using edge-preserving prior. , 2008, Medical physics.

[16]  Jing Wang,et al.  Penalized weighted least-squares approach to sinogram noise reduction and image reconstruction for low-dose X-ray computed tomography , 2006, IEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging.