Rolf Karl Otto Behling

State of the Art of CT Detectors and Sources: A Literature Review

The three CT components with the greatest impact on image quality are the X-ray source, detection system and reconstruction algorithms. In this paper, we focus on the first two. We describe the state-of-the-art of CT detection systems, their calibrations, software corrections and common performance metrics. The components of CT detection systems, such as scintillator materials, photodiodes, data acquisition electronics and anti-scatter grids, are discussed. Their impact on CT image quality, their most important characteristics, as well as emerging future technology trends for each, are reviewed. The use of detection for multi-energy CT imaging is described. An overview of current CT X-ray sources, their evolution to support major trends in CT imaging and future trends is provided.

P4-15: High current X-ray source technology for medical imaging

A novel compact rotating anode X-ray tube with high electron focusing capability of a paired magnetic quadrupole system is presented. The tube offers a high power density even at relatively low tube voltage, where the X-ray flux at a detector behind an object is very limited. Its various focal spot deflection capabilities helpto reduce image artifacts, enhance the spatial resolution of the corresponding Computed Tomography system, and enable X-ray beam intensity control and compensation of mechanical distortions of the system.

Latest high performance X-ray tubes for medical imaging

Why still vacuum technology to generate Bremsstrahlung, nearly 120 years after Conrad Roentgens discovery? How do X-ray source and detection contribute to modern medical imaging? How do latest medical X-ray tubes work and look like? Whats next? Will we see replacements of bremsstrahlung from practical sources for medical imaging in the clinical environment? After touching historic achievements to demonstrate the high level which the technology has today, we will shortly dive into physics of X-ray generation, study key characteristics, material boundary conditions, manufacturing technology. A particular focus area will be the generation of free electrons under the adverse conditions inside an X-ray tube, grid switching and focusing of the beam. The high level of residual gas as well as ion and discharge processes severely limit the range of suitable technologies. Other topics will be overall design concepts of glass and metal frame, single ended and dual polar tubes with reflection targets. We will touch the principle of rotating anode tubes, their bearings, anode discs, motors, cooling, heat balance, electron emitters and beam focusing, focal spot characteristics, off-focal radiation, and discuss the improvements of image quality by focal spot deflection.

SU-F-E-01: Pitfalls: Reliability and Performance of Diagnostic X-Sources

PURPOSE Performance and reliability of medical X-ray tubes for imaging are crucial from an ethical, clinical and economic perspective. This lecture will deliver insight into the aspects to consider during the decision making process to invest in X-ray imaging equipment. Outdated metric still hampers realistic product comparison. It is time to change this and to comply with latest standards, which consider current technology. Failure modes and ways to avoid down-time of the equipment shall be discussed. In view of the increasing number of interventional procedures and the hazards associated with ionizing radiation, toxic contrast agents, and the combination thereof, the aspect of system reliability is of paramount importance. METHODS A comprehensive picture of trends for different modalities (CT, angiography, general radiology) has been drawn and led to the development of novel X-ray tube technology. RESULTS Recent X-ray tubes feature enhanced reliability and unprecedented performance. Relevant metrics for product comparison still have to be implemented in practice. CONCLUSION The speed of scientific and industrial development of new diagnostic and therapeutic X-ray sources remains tremendous. Still, users suffer from gaps between desire and reality in day-to-day diagnostic routine. X-ray sources are still limiting cutting-edge medical procedures. Side-effects of wear and tear, limitations of the clinical work flow, costs, the characteristics of the X-ray spectrum and others topics need to be further addressed. New applications and modalities, like detection-based color-resolved X-ray and phase-contrast / dark-field imaging will impact the course of new developments of X-ray sources. The author is employee of Royal Philips.

TH-F-209-01: Pitfalls: Reliability and Performance of Diagnostic X-Ray Sources

PURPOSE Performance and reliability of medical X-ray tubes for imaging are crucial from an ethical, clinical and economic perspective. This lecture will deliver insight into the aspects to consider during the decision making process to invest in X-ray imaging equipment. Outdated metric still hampers realistic product comparison. It is time to change this and to comply with latest standards, which consider current technology. Failure modes and ways to avoid down-time of the equipment shall be discussed. In view of the increasing number of interventional procedures and the hazards associated with ionizing radiation, toxic contrast agents, and the combination thereof, the aspect of system reliability is of paramount importance. METHODS A comprehensive picture of trends for different modalities (CT, angiography, general radiology) has been drawn and led to the development of novel X-ray tube technology. RESULTS Recent X-ray tubes feature enhanced reliability and unprecedented performance. Relevant metrics for product comparison still have to be implemented in practice. CONCLUSION The speed of scientific and industrial development of new diagnostic and therapeutic X-ray sources remains tremendous. Still, users suffer from gaps between desire and reality in day-to-day diagnostic routine. X-ray sources are still limiting cutting-edge medical procedures. Side-effects of wear and tear, limitations of the clinical work flow, costs, the characteristics of the X-ray spectrum and others topics need to be further addressed. New applications and modalities, like detection-based color-resolved X-ray and phase-contrast / dark-field imaging will impact the course of new developments of X-ray sources. LEARNING OBJECTIVES 1. Understand the basic requirements on medical diagnostic X-ray sources per modality 2. Learn to select the optimal equipment employing state-of-the-art metric 3. Know causes of failures, depending on the way X-ray sources are operated 4. Understand methods to remediate critical situations 5. Understand the meaning of different warranty models I am employee of Royal Philips; R. Behling, No external funding. I am employee of Royal Philips.