Single-Pulse Dual-Energy Mammography Using a Binary Screen Coupled to Dual CCDCameras

摘要

Progress on several fronts has been made towards the completion of the Statementof Work on this grant. X-ray spectra from a mammographic system and from a general diagnostic x-ray system were characterized using a technique developed by the principal investigator. These spectral models are useful in performing computer simulations for the purpose of optimizing the design of the dual energy mammography system which is the focus of this research. We have evaluated scintillator systems as an alternative to screen film systems. Monte Carlo calculations of the normalized glandular dose for different breast thicknesses and x-ray spectra have been performed, and we are in the process of evaluating results and refining the Monte Carlo model. We have begun a series of experiments in which we hope to verify many aspects of the computer simulated calculations. Dual energy images have been acquired, although we have yet to develop an anatomically similar phantom of the breast. The physical design of the dual energy imaging system has been modified in response to our ongoing research results, and towards the end of this fiscal year we hope to have a fully operational, optimized prototype (small field of view) digital mammography system in our laboratory.