Contrast resolution of line-scanned digital radiography

Contrast resolution of a prototype system for line-scanned digital radiography was evaluated using a phantom simulating low contrast tumors within the body. Simulated tumors having radiographic contrast as low as 0.5% were detectable in these studies. The results of these digital radiographic studies compare favorably to those of computed tomography in terms of both low contrast detectability and radiation dosage. Dual energy projection radiographic techniques show promise for eliminating obscuring shadows caused by overlying structures from digital radiographs, thus permitting clinical utilization of the excellent contrast resolution of the line scanned projection system.