Uwe Wiedmann

X-ray pulsing methods for reduced-dose computed tomography in PET/CT attenuation correction

The image quality needed for CT-based attenuation correction (CTAC) is significantly lower than what is used currently for diagnostic CT imaging. Consequently, the X-ray dose required for sufficient image quality with CTAC is relatively small, potentially smaller than the lowest X-ray dose clinical CT scanners can provide. Operating modes have been proposed in which the X-rays are periodically turned on and off during the scan in order to reduce X-ray dose. This study reviews the different methods by which X-rays can be modulated in a CT scanner, and assesses their adequacy for lowdose acquisitions as required for CTAC. Calculations and experimental data are provided to exemplify selected X-ray pulsing scenarios. Our analysis shows that low-dose pulsing is possible but challenging with clinically available CT tubes. Alternative X-ray tube designs would lift this restriction.