Smart collimation based on a single scout scan in a computed tomography system

Abstract

A CT system having an adjustable pre-patient collimator and a partial volume artifact reduction algorithm is described. In one embodiment, a scout scan is performed to collect scout scan data. Utilizing the scout scan data, the algorithm identified the boundaries and radius of a partial volume artifact producing object. The algorithm then determines an average attenuation coefficient and an attenuation index of the object. The object radius, the attenuation coefficient and attenuation index are then graded to identify the object. A collimator aperture index is then determined based upon a variation of the attenuation characteristic along the z axis for the identified object. Utilizing the collimator aperture index, the CT system computer adjusts the collimator aperture for the appropriate size to eliminate, or significantly reduce, partial volume artifacts.

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