High resolution propagation-based imaging system for < i > in vivo < /i > dynamic computed tomography of lungs in small animals.

High resolution propagation-based imaging system for <i>in vivo</i> dynamic computed tomography of lungs in small animals. Phys Med Biol. 2018 Mar 22;: Authors: Preissner M, Murrie RP, Pinar I, Werdiger F, Carnibella RP, Zosky GR, Fouras A, Dubsky S Abstract We have developed an X-ray imaging system for &lt;i&gt;in vivo&lt;/i&gt; four-dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) of small animals for pre-clinical lung investigations. Our customized laboratory facility is capable of high resolution &lt;i&gt;in vivo&lt;/i&gt; imaging at high frame rates. Characterization using phantoms demonstrate a spatial resolution of slightly below 50 μm at imaging rates of 30 Hz, and the ability to quantify material density differences of at least 3%. We benchmark our system against existing small animal pre-clinical CT scanners using a quality factor that combines spatial resolution, image noise, dose and scan time. &lt;i&gt;In vivo&lt;/i&gt; 4DCT images obtained on our system demonstrate resolution of important features such as blood vessels and small airways, of which the smallest discernible were measured as 55 - 60 μm in cross section. Quantitative analysis of the images demonstrate regional differences in ventilation between injured and healthy lungs. PMID: 29565260 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Physics in Medicine and Biology - Category: Physics Authors: Tags: Phys Med Biol Source Type: research