Photon counting CT detector using solid-state photomultiplier and scintillator

Abstract

A detector module for a CT imaging system includes a scintillator to convert x-rays to optical photons. The scintillator is optically coupled to a solid-state photomultiplier with internal gain to receive the optical photons and convert them into a corresponding electrical signal output.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates generally to radiographic detectors for diagnostic imaging and, more particularly, to a CT detector module capable of providing photon count and energy data with improved saturation characteristics. Background technique [0002] Typically, in radiography (imaging systems) such as X-ray and computed tomography (CT) imaging, an X-ray source emits X-rays at an object or target, such as a patient or a piece of luggage. Hereinafter, the terms "object" and " "Target" is used interchangeably to describe anything that can be imaged. After being attenuated by the object, the beam impinges on an array of radiation detectors. The intensity of the attenuated radiation beam received at the detector array usually depends on the x-ray intensity. Degree of Attenuation.Each detector element of the detector array produces a separate electrical signal indicative of the attenuated light beam received by each detector element.The electrical si...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Charge sharing can cause photons to be missed entirely or mislabeled with energy

In either case, as a result of using subdivided pixels each connected to its own amplifier, the DQE drops and the spectral response will degrade fidelity

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