Patent ID: 6687326
Filing Date: 2004-02-03
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A system for correcting for scatter in a computed tomography scanner comprising:a tunnel having a platform disposed therein for receiving an object to be scanned; an x-ray source for directing x-rays at the object to be scanned; a detector array including a plurality of primary detectors for receiving said x-rays and at least one secondary detector for receiving portions of said x-ray beam scattered within said tunnel; and processing means for reducing the effects of scatter in images of the object reconstructed from the x-rays detected by said primary detectors, said processing means performing the steps of: A. determining an amount of scatter detected by said at least one secondary detector resulting from said tunnel and said platform prior to the placement of the object on said platform; B. determining an amount of scatter detected by said at least one secondary detector resulting from said tunnel, said platform and the object after the object has been placed on said platform; C. estimating an amount of scatter caused only by the presence of the object on said platform within said tunnel; and D. correcting the reconstructed images of the object based on the amount of scatter estimated in Step C.