Antiscatter grid use in pediatric digital tomosynthesis imaging.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiologic Technology

Background:

• Digital tomosynthesis is increasingly used in pediatric imaging.
• Antiscatter grids are crucial in conventional radiography for image quality but their role in tomosynthesis requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of antiscatter grid usage on the image quality of digital tomosynthesis scout and slice images.
• To compare image quality with and without an antiscatter grid across various simulated pediatric patient thicknesses.

Main Methods:

• An observer study was conducted using a Leeds TO.20 contrast-detail test object embedded in acrylic (10-25 cm thickness).
• Images were acquired with and without an antiscatter grid, and also without a grid at an increased dose.
• Readers assessed image quality by counting visible details.

Main Results:

• The antiscatter grid demonstrably improved tomosynthesis image quality compared to grid-out acquisitions.
• Image quality with the grid was superior to grid-out images and comparable to traditional grid-in radiography.
• Higher image quality scores were observed with grid use, especially for simulated patient thicknesses exceeding 10 cm.

Conclusions:

• Antiscatter grids enhance pediatric digital tomosynthesis image quality.
• Grid use is recommended for pediatric tomosynthesis, especially for thicker patients, to optimize image quality relative to radiation dose.
• The findings support the routine consideration of antiscatter grids in pediatric tomosynthesis protocols.