A CT scanner technique that divides a full X-ray beam into thin beams can give the same image at a much reduced radiation level, according to a new UCL study.
The technique, shown in a small sample on a small CT scan, can be replaced with medical scans and used to reduce the amount of radiation millions of people experience each year.
Computer scan (CT) is a type of x-ray that creates an accurate view of the inner part of the body. It is used to guide treatment and detection of cancer and other diseases.
Previous studies have suggested that CT scans could lead to a small increase in the risk of life-threatening cancers because their high-energy length can damage DNA. Although cells repair these damage, sometimes these repairs are not complete, leading to DNA changes in later years.
In the new study, published in the Physical Examination Study, the researchers placed a mask and small pieces on an X-ray beam, breaking the beam into a beam. Then they moved the sample shown on a bicycle motion that ensured that the whole object was illuminated quickly - that is, none of its parts were missing.
The researchers compared the new technique with conventional CT scanning methods, in which the sample rotates as the full beam is directed at it, and sees it delivering the same image quality at a much reduced scale.
Dr Charlotte Hagen (UCL Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering), the first author of the paper and a member of UCL's X-Ray Study Group, said: "Being able to reduce CT scan scans is a sought-after goal. In the long run. Our approach opens up new possibilities for medical research and we believe it can be adapted for use in medical scans, helping to reduce the critical radiation source for people in many countries. "
Typical CT scans include an X-ray beam rotated around the patient. The new "cycloidal" method combines this cycle with the simultaneous motion of the back and front.
The use of a beam enables a sharp image resolution, as part of the scanner "reading" the information from the X-ray can find the place where the information comes from more accurately.
Professor Sandro Olivo (UCL Physics of Medicine and Biomedical Engineering), senior author of the journal, said: "This new method corrects two problems. It can be used to reduce dosage, but if used in the same dosage it can increase visual resolution.
"This means that the intensity of the image can be easily adjusted using masks of different sizes, allowing for greater flexibility and resolution from scanner hardware constraints."
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