Image processing algorithm helps make x-rays for children safer

Jan. 6, 2021
The new ‘autocorrect’ image processing algorithm aims to reduce x-ray scatter, meaning children can receive safer, high-contrast, low-dose x-rays.

Photonics scientists at the Warsaw University of Technology (WUT; Warsaw, Poland), working in collaboration with innovation incubator ACTPHAST 4.0 and medical imaging company Italray (Scandicci, Florence, Italy), have developed a  new algorithm that ‘autocorrects’ unclear, low-dose digital x-rays to generate a higher-contrast image, meaning young children can receive safer x-ray scans.

When having an x-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan, beams enter the body and ricochet around insideor become ‘scattered.’ Given that the scatter signal interferes with the primary contrast of the patient’s physical features such as bones or organs, this scattering process creates ‘noise’ and leads to a loss in image quality, making resulting x-rays appear blurred.

The scatter, however, can be counteracted with an ‘antiscatter grid’a metal plate made of lead strips to encourage parallel beamsimproving the image contrast. But, this grid normally requires a higher dose of x-rays, and can therefore be dangerous to small children.

X-rays can emit harmful ionizing radiationhigh-energy particles that penetrate tissue to reveal internal organs and bone structureswhich can damage DNA. While scientists have often sought to reduce this ionizing radiation, traditionally it has come at the expense of the type of detector and image resolution. Recognizing this, the team of scientists has been able to address the image quality problem as a result of scatter from the perspective of the acquired data and the digital image processing.

The research teams method works by minimizing the scattering process by taking the original image and estimation of the scatter signal, explains Wojciech Krauze, the team’s project manager. By partially ‘reversing’ the scatter, the digital image processing algorithm is able to reduce the amount of noise signal, essentially ‘autocorrecting’ the blurred image instantly, he says.

“The result is a ‘scatter grid quality’ image without the need for an actual anti scatter grid,” Krauze says.

Source: ACTPHAST 4.0 press release

Sponsored Recommendations

Brain Computer Interface (BCI) electrode manufacturing

Jan. 31, 2025
Learn how an industry-leading Brain Computer Interface Electrode (BCI) manufacturer used precision laser micromachining to produce high-density neural microelectrode arrays.

Electro-Optic Sensor and System Performance Verification with Motion Systems

Jan. 31, 2025
To learn how to use motion control equipment for electro-optic sensor testing, click here to read our whitepaper!

How nanopositioning helped achieve fusion ignition

Jan. 31, 2025
In December 2022, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's National Ignition Facility (NIF) achieved fusion ignition. Learn how Aerotech nanopositioning contributed to this...

Nanometer Scale Industrial Automation for Optical Device Manufacturing

Jan. 31, 2025
In optical device manufacturing, choosing automation technologies at the R&D level that are also suitable for production environments is critical to bringing new devices to market...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!