Optimization and evaluation of an image intensifier TV system for digital chest imaging

The quality of the digital image acquired with an image intensifier-TV system depends on a number of parameters. The present work describes procedures to take into account and control the major parameters that influence the image, and how it is perceived by a viewer. This is done both by adjustment of the equipment and by digital image restoration. To further increase the diagnostic yield of chest images, image processing routines for local contrast enhancement were developed and evaluated. Digital images were compared to conventional radiograms by ROC analysis of simulated nodules and line structures on an anthropomorphic phantom. The digital, 1024 matrix, image-intensifier system was found to be well suited for chest imaging, provided optimized equipment and processed images were used.