Cone Beam Micro-CT System for Small Animal Imaging and Performance Evaluation

A prototype cone-beam micro-CT system for small animal imaging has been developed by our group recently, which consists of a microfocus X-ray source, a three-dimensional programmable stage with object holder, and a flat-panel X-ray detector. It has a large field of view (FOV), which can acquire the whole body imaging of a normal-size mouse in a single scan which usually takes about several minutes or tens of minutes. FDK method is adopted for 3D reconstruction with Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) acceleration. In order to reconstruct images with high spatial resolution and low artifacts, raw data preprocessing and geometry calibration are implemented before reconstruction. A method which utilizes a wire phantom to estimate the residual horizontal offset of the detector is proposed, and 1D point spread function is used to assess the performance of geometric calibration quantitatively. System spatial resolution, image uniformity and noise, and low contrast resolution have been studied. Mouse images with and without contrast agent are illuminated in this paper. Experimental results show that the system is suitable for small animal imaging and is adequate to provide high-resolution anatomic information for bioluminescence tomography to build a dual modality system

Assessment of a New High-Performance Small-Animal X-Ray Tomograph

We have developed a new X-ray cone-beam tomograph for in vivo small-animal imaging using a flat panel detector (CMOS technology with a microcolumnar CsI scintillator plate) and a microfocus X-ray source. The geometrical configuration was designed to achieve a spatial resolution of about 12 lpmm with a field of view appropriate for laboratory rodents. In order to achieve high performance with regard to per-animal screening time and cost, the acquisition software takes advantage of the highest frame rate of the detector and performs on-the-fly corrections on the detector raw data. These corrections include geometrical misalignments, sensor non-uniformities, and defective elements. The resulting image is then converted to attenuation values. We measured detector modulation transfer function (MTF), detector stability, system resolution, quality of the reconstructed tomographic images and radiated dose. The system resolution was measured following the standard test method ASTM E 1695 -95. For image quality evaluation, we assessed signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) as a function of the radiated dose. Dose studies for different imaging protocols were performed by introducing TLD dosimeters in representative organs of euthanized laboratory rats. Noise figure, measured as standard deviation, was 50 HU for a dose of 10 cGy. Effective dose with standard research protocols is below 200 mGy, confirming that the system is appropriate for in vivo imaging. Maximum spatial resolution achieved was better than 50 micron. Our experimental results obtained with image quality phantoms as well as with in-vivo studies show that the proposed configuration based on a CMOS flat panel detector and a small micro-focus X-ray tube leads to a compact design that provides good image quality and low radiated dose, and it could be used as an add-on for existing PET or SPECT scannersIEEE Nuclear and Plasma Sciences SocietyPublicad

Study of Image Qualities From 6D Robot–Based CBCT Imaging System of Small Animal Irradiator

Purpose: To assess the quality of cone beam computed tomography images obtained by a robotic arm-based and image-guided small animal conformal radiation therapy device. Method and Materials: The small animal conformal radiation therapy device is equipped with a 40 to 225 kV X-ray tube mounted on a custom made gantry, a 1024 � 1024 pixels flat panel detector (200 mm resolution), a programmable 6 degrees of freedom robot for cone beam computed tomography imaging and conformal delivery of radiation doses. A series of 2-dimensional radiographic projection images were recorded in cone beam mode by placing and rotating microcomputed tomography phantoms on the “palm’ of the robotic arm. Reconstructed images were studied for image quality (spatial resolution, image uniformity, computed tomography number linearity, voxel noise, and artifacts). Results: Geometric accuracy was measured to be 2% corresponding to 0.7 mm accuracy on a Shelley microcomputed tomo- graphy QA phantom. Qualitative resolution of reconstructed axial computed tomography slices using the resolution coils was within 200 mm. Quantitative spatial resolution was found to be 3.16 lp/mm. Uniformity of the system was measured within 34 Hounsfield unit on a QRM microcomputed tomography water phantom. Computed tomography numbers measured using the linearity plate were linear with material density (R2 > 0.995). Cone beam computed tomography images of the QRM multidisk phantom had minimal artifacts. Conclusion: Results showed that the small animal conformal radiation therapy device is capable of producing high-quality cone beam computed tomography images for precise and conformal small animal dose delivery. With its high-caliber imaging capabilities, the small animal conformal radiation therapy device is a powerful tool for small animal research

Assessment of a new CT system for small animals

Proceeding of: 2006 IEEE Nuclear Science Symposium Conference Record, San Diego, CA, Oct. 29 - Nov. 1, 2006We have developed an X-ray cone beam tomograph for in vivo small-animal imaging using a flat panel detector (CMOS technology with a columnar CsI scintillator plate) and a microfocus X-ray source in a geometric configuration with 1.6 magnification and 7.5 cm2 field of view. This work presents an initial characterization of this new system. We measured the detector modulation transfer function (MTF), detector stability, system resolution, the quality of the reconstructed tomographic images and radiated dose. The system resolution was measured following the standard test method ASTM E1696-95. For image quality evaluation, we assessed signal to noise ratio (SNR) and contrast to noise ratio (CNR) with respect to radiated dose. Measurements have been performed on Hounsfield-calibrated images of quantitative phantoms. Effective dose studies have been performed introducing TLD dosimeters in representative organs (ICRU criteria) of euthanized laboratory rats for different imaging protocols. Noise measurements indicate that 50 HU can be achieved at a dose of 10 cGy. Effective dose in standard research methods is below 200 mSv, confirming that the system is appropriate for in vivo imaging. Maximum spatial resolution achieved is better than 50 microns. Experimental results on image quality phantoms as well as on in-vivo studies show that the use of CMOS flat panel is a good choice in terms of quality with respect to radiated dose.This work was supported in part by the Spanish Ministerio de Educación y Ciencia under Grant No. TEC2004-07052-C02, la Comunidad de Madrid Grant No. GR/SAL/024104 CD Team,and the CENIT program of the Spanish Ministerio de Industria

Development of a small animal conformal irradiator with dual energy x-ray computed tomography imaging for kilovoltage dosimetry

External beam radiotherapy has become technically sophisticated with image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) and intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). These technologies allow for precise delivery of radiation to geometric targets in cancer patients. However, many questions remain on how to best define targets based on biological information, such as functional imaging, and how to combine radiation with other cancer therapies. To help answer these questions, small animal preclinical studies are needed to generate data to inform clinical trials. However, the precise radiation delivery capabilities of IGRT and IMRT have not been available in the preclinical labs. To enable translational experiments and to address the lack of preclinical radiotherapy technology, a commercial micro-CT was first developed into an image-guided conformal radiotherapy system in this thesis. Computerized asymmetric jaws were constructed, implemented and characterized for the system. A Monte Carlo dose calculation package was successfully configured for the system and verified with film measurements. Respiratory gated imaging and radiotherapy was demonstrated with a phantom and in animals. Secondly, accurate radiation dosimetry reduces uncertainties in preclinical experiments. To achieve accurate dose calculations in the kilovoltage x-ray range where photoelectric effects and Compton scattering dominate, knowledge of material composition and density is needed. Dual energy micro-CT was optimized (including choice of x-ray beam peak voltages, filtrations, and duration) and evaluated for the purpose of characterizing materials. Dual energy CT techniques developed for clinical scanners were adapted and examined for micro-CT. A set of micro-CT phantoms consisting of 11 plastic materials and solutions that spanned a relevant range of compositions was designed and constructed. Initial experiments found beam-hardening image artefacts limited accurate measurements. By switching to a more sensitive detector, x-ray spectra with additional beam filtration were possible and resulted in reduced beam-hardening effects. This improved dual energy micro-CT measurement accuracy of material composition and density. In conclusion, a small animal image-guided conformal radiotherapy system was developed and commissioned for preclinical studies. Dual energy micro-CT was demonstrated as a method to characterize materials to improve kilovoltage dose calculation. This integrated micro-CT based small animal image-guided radiation platform has enabled numerous pre-clinical studies

Current status and new horizons in Monte Carlo simulation of X-ray CT scanners

With the advent of powerful computers and parallel processing including Grid technology, the use of Monte Carlo (MC) techniques for radiation transport simulation has become the most popular method for modeling radiological imaging systems and particularly X-ray computed tomography (CT). The stochastic nature of involved processes such as X-ray photons generation, interaction with matter and detection makes MC the ideal tool for accurate modeling. MC calculations can be used to assess the impact of different physical design parameters on overall scanner performance, clinical image quality and absorbed dose assessment in CT examinations, which can be difficult or even impossible to estimate by experimental measurements and theoretical analysis. Simulations can also be used to develop and assess correction methods and reconstruction algorithms aiming at improving image quality and quantitative procedures. This paper focuses mainly on recent developments and future trends in X-ray CT MC modeling tools and their areas of application. An overview of existing programs and their useful features will be given together with recent developments in the design of computational anthropomorphic models of the human anatomy. It should be noted that due to limited space, the references contained herein are for illustrative purposes and are not inclusive; no implication that those chosen are better than others not mentioned is intende

Bronchial Circulation Angiogenesis in the Rat Quantified with SPECT and Micro-CT

Introduction As pulmonary artery obstruction results in proliferation of the bronchial circulation in a variety of species, we investigated this angiogenic response using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and micro-CT. Materials and methods After surgical ligation of the left pulmonary artery of rats, they were imaged at 10, 20, or 40 days post-ligation. Before imaging, technetium-labeled macroaggregated albumin (99mTc MAA) was injected into the aortic arch (IA) labeling the systemic circulation. SPECT/micro-CT imaging was performed, the image volumes were registered, and activity in the left lung via the bronchial circulation was used as a marker of bronchial blood flow. To calibrate and to verify successful ligation, 99mTc MAA was subsequently injected into the left femoral vein (IV), resulting in accumulation within the pulmonary circulation. The rats were reimaged, and the ratio of the IA to the IV measurements reflected the fraction of cardiac output (CO) to the left lung via the bronchial circulation. Control and sham-operated rats were studied similarly. Results The left lung bronchial circulation of the control group was 2.5% of CO. The sham-operated rats showed no significant difference from the control. However, 20 and 40 days post-ligation, the bronchial circulation blood flow had increased to 7.9 and 13.9%, respectively, of CO. Excised lungs examined after barium filling of the systemic vasculature confirmed neovascularization as evidenced by tortuous vessels arising from the mediastinum and bronchial circulation. Conclusion Thus, we conclude that SPECT/micro-CT imaging is a valuable methodology for monitoring angiogenesis in the lung and, potentially, for evaluating the effects of pro- or anti-angiogenic treatments using a similar approach

Software architecture for multi-bed FDK-based reconstruction in X-ray CT scanners

Most small-animal X-ray computed tomography (CT) scanners are based on cone-beam geometry with a flat-panel detector orbiting in a circular trajectory. Image reconstruction in these systems is usually performed by approximate methods based on the algorithm proposed by Feldkamp et al. (FDK). Besides the implementation of the reconstruction algorithm itself, in order to design a real system it is necessary to take into account numerous issues so as to obtain the best quality images from the acquired data. This work presents a comprehensive, novel software architecture for small-animal CT scanners based on cone-beam geometry with circular scanning trajectory. The proposed architecture covers all the steps from the system calibration to the volume reconstruction and conversion into Hounsfield units. It includes an efficient implementation of an FDK-based reconstruction algorithm that takes advantage of system symmetries and allows for parallel reconstruction using a multiprocessor computer. Strategies for calibration and artifact correction are discussed to justify the strategies adopted. New procedures for multi-bed misalignment, beam-hardening, and Housfield units calibration are proposed. Experiments with phantoms and real data showed the suitability of the proposed software architecture for an X-ray small animal CT based on cone-beam geometry.This work was partially funded by AMIT project from the CDTI CENIT program, TEC2007-64731, TEC2008-06715- C02-01, RD07/0014/2009, TRA2009 0175, RECAVA-RETIC, and RD09/0077/00087 (Ministerio de Ciencia e Inovación), and ARTEMIS S2009/DPI-1802 (Comunidad de Madrid).Publicad