Method for statistically reconstructing images from a plurality of transmission measurements having energy diversity and image reconstructor apparatus utilizing the method

Abstract

A method for statistically reconstructing images from a plurality of transmission measurements having energy diversity and image reconstructor apparatus utilizing the method are provided. A statistical (maximum-likelihood) method for dual-energy X-ray CT accommodates a wide variety of potential system configurations and measurement noise models. Regularized methods (such as penalized-likelihood or Bayesian estimations) are straightforward extensions. One version of the algorithm monotonically decreases the negative log-likelihood cost function each iteration. An ordered-subsets variation of the algorithm provides a fast and practical version. The method and apparatus provide material characterization and quantitatively accurate CT values in a variety of applications. The method and apparatus provide improved noise/dose properties.

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