System and method for generating a tomographic reconstruction filter

Abstract

A system for generating a reconstruction filter for an imaging scanner comprises a model bank (124) that includes a model for generating the reconstruction filter, a filter criteria bank (122) that includes filter criteria for generating the reconstruction filter, and a filter generator (120) that generates the reconstruction filter based on the filter model and the filter criteria. In one non-limiting instance, the model is based on minimizing a cost function that includes predetermined filter criteria such as image contrast. In another non-limiting instance, the cost function includes terms relating to spatial resolution, noise and a signal visual perception in the presence of noise.

Description

technical field [0001] The following generally relates to reconstruction filters, with particular application to computed tomography (CT). However, it can also be used in other medical and non-medical imaging applications. Background technique [0002] Computed tomography (CT) scanners typically include an X-ray tube mounted on a rotating gantry that rotates around an examination area about a longitudinal or Z-axis and emits radiation. The detector array forms an angular arc opposite the x-ray tube to the examination region. The detector array detects radiation passing through the examination region (and the subject or object therein) and generates projection data representative of the subject or object. A reconstructor reconstructs the projection data based on a reconstruction algorithm, such as a filtered back-projection reconstruction algorithm, and generates volumetric image data representative of the scanned subject or object. The volumetric image data may be process...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, empirically optimizing the reconstruction filter based on user feedback can prolong the optimization process over relatively long periods of time

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