Usefulness of Post-processing Scatter Correction in Portable Abdominal Radiography Using a Low Ratio Anti-scatter Grid

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate an influence of post-processing scatter correction in portable abdominal radiography using a low ratio anti-scatter grid (grid). To assess tube voltage on portable abdominal radiography, a burger phantom was used to measure for inverse of image quality figure (IQFinv). For evaluation of the influence on using or not the grid, IQFinv were measured. Abdominal phantom radiographies were assessed subjectively, in random order, by six radiologic technologists. The radiographies were performed without scatter correction [IG (-)] and with scatter correction at equivalent for grid ratio 6 [IG (6)] and 8 [IG (8)]. There was no significant decrease in IQFinv with 75 and 80 kV in comparison of 70 kV. Even processing scatter correction, IQFinv with using the grid was significantly higher than that without using the grid. The ability to detect nasogastric tube and stomach gas were significantly better in the scatter correction. Deviation index for IG (6) and IG (8) were significantly lower than that of IG (-). Portable abdominal radiographies will be improved image quality by utilizing scatter correction, although, it is necessary to consider the scatter correction processing as this may significant decrease deviation index in the practical situation. The post-processing scatter correction should be useful for detection nasogastric tube and stomach gas in portable abdominal radiography.