Geometry calibration between X-ray source and detector for tomosynthesis with a portable X-ray system.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Tomosynthesis offers low-dose imaging alternative to X-ray CT.
• Conventional tomosynthesis devices are large, stationary, and have limited X-ray source range.
• Portable tomosynthesis systems are needed for ward rounds and emergency medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a geometry calibration method for portable tomosynthesis systems.
• To demonstrate tomosynthesis image reconstruction using a portable X-ray device with a flat panel detector (FPD).
• To enable flexible and accurate tomosynthesis imaging in diverse clinical settings.

Main Methods:

• An image processing-based calibration method using an asymmetric and multilayered calibration object (AMCO) was developed.
• The AMCO is attached to the X-ray source housing, eliminating the need for patient-based calibration objects.
• The multilayer structure of the AMCO enhances out-of-plane calibration accuracy.

Main Results:

• Calibration accuracy of approximately 1 mm in both in-plane and out-of-plane directions was achieved.
• Angular accuracy of approximately [Formula: see text] was confirmed.
• Reconstructed images of a foot model phantom showed a clearly observable sagittal plane.

Conclusions:

• A tomosynthesis imaging system utilizing a portable X-ray device was successfully proposed.
• The developed geometry calibration method provides sufficient accuracy for clinical use.
• The system enables clear reconstruction of the sagittal plane in tomosynthesis images.