Patent ID: 7412024
Filing Date: 2008-08-12
Classification: A61B,G21K

Abstract:
1. A phase contrast x-ray imaging system, comprising: a sample holder comprising a clamping mechanism for holding a breast; an x-ray source for generating an x-ray beam for irradiating the sample; a first detector for generating a first image of the breast from the x-ray beam, wherein the first detector comprises a first scintillator for converting the x-ray beam into a first optical signal, a first optical detector for detecting the first optical signal, and a first mirror for directing the first optical signal out of a path of the x-ray beam to the first optical detector; a second detector for generating a second image of the breast from the x-ray beam, wherein the second detector comprises a second scintillator for converting the x-ray beam into a second optical signal, a second optical detector for detecting the second optical signal, and a second mirror for directing the second optical signal out of a path of the x ray beam to the second optical detector; and an image processor for combining information from the first image and the second image to generate a phase contrast image of the breast.