Abstract
In this work we present a detection system, based on a CdTe detector and an innovative digital pulse processing (DPP) system, for high-rate X-ray spectroscopy in mammography (1–30 keV). The DPP system performs a height and shape analysis of the detector pulses, sampled and digitized by a 14-bit, 100 MHz ADC. We show the results of the characterization of the detection system both at low and high photon counting rates by using monoenergetic X-ray sources and a nonclinical X-ray tube. The detection system exhibits excellent performance up to 830 kcps with an energy resolution of 4.5% FWHM at 22.1 keV. Direct measurements of clinical molybdenum X-ray spectra were carried out by using a pinhole collimator and a custom alignment device. A comparison with the attenuation curves and the half value layer values, obtained from the measured and simulated spectra, from an ionization chamber and from a solid state dosimeter, also shows the accuracy of the measurements. These results make the proposed detection system a very attractive tool for both laboratory research, calibration of dosimeters and advanced quality controls in mammography.
Highlights
The spectral distribution of X-ray beams from X-ray tubes is essential for quality control (QC) in mammography, in terms of image quality and patient dose [1,2,3]
In this work we report on the performance of an X-ray detection system based on a CdTe detector coupled to an innovative digital pulse processing (DPP) system for high-rate X-ray spectroscopy in the mammographic energy range (1–30 keV)
We investigated on the response of the digital detection system both at low and at high photon counting rates by using monoenergetic X-ray sources, nonclinical X-ray tubes (Ag, Mo, W, anode materials) and a clinical Mo anode X-ray tube
Summary
The spectral distribution of X-ray beams from X-ray tubes is essential for quality control (QC) in mammography, in terms of image quality and patient dose [1,2,3]. X-ray spectra can be used for accurate estimations of the peak voltage (KVp) of the tubes [4], the energy fluence rate [5], the inherent filtration [6], the beam-hardening artifacts [3] and for the correct implementation of the new dual-energy techniques [7]. The peak voltage of a diagnostic X-ray tube should be routinely monitored, since small KVp changes can modify both absorbed dose and image contrast in mammography [4]. Measurement of X-ray spectra is the best procedure for accurate quality controls in mammography. Routine measurement of mammographic X-ray spectra is quite uncommon due to the complexity of the measurement procedure. The measurement of mammographic X-ray spectra is a difficult task because of limitations on measurement with high energy resolution at high photon counting rates as well as geometrical restrictions, especially in a hospital environment
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