Technical and clinical results of an experimental flat dynamic (digital) x-ray image detector (FDXD) system with real-time corrections

A clinical imaging system based upon an amorphous-Silicon (a- Si) flat dynamic (digital) X-ray image detector (FDXD) has been developed. The objectives of this experimental set-up were to determine the physical image quality and to establish the clinical feasibility of a flat-panel x-ray detector for radiography and fluoroscopy (R&F) applications. The FDXD acquires dynamic X-ray images at high frame rates in both continuous and pulsed fluoroscopic modes, lower frame rate exposures and single shots. The system has been installed in a clinical research room at The General Infirmary, Leeds (UK) and is being evaluated in a variety of universal R&F contrast medium aided examinations, including barium swallows, meals and enema examinations. In addition, general radiographic examinations have been performed. Both the established benefits and possible drawbacks of this type of system, together with the potential solutions, are discussed in this paper. Approach, design and set-up of the system are presented, and the dose efficiency and image quality achieved in clinical operation are explained. The technical and medical phantom images have been evaluated and analyzed. The results of the clinical examinations in mixed applications are discussed. The results of the measurements and examinations performed to date on this experimental FDXD system confirm the potential of this new type of digital X-ray image detector.