New quantum detection system for very low dose X-ray radiology

A new X-ray radiology system has been devised that significantly reduces the dose of radiation administered to patients in spinal X-ray examinations. The apparatus scans the patient, using a high-efficiency linear solid-state detector and highly sensitive electronics, operating in counting mode. Two specific integrated circuits were developed, one of which contains an automatic offset correction. The detection system characterization data will be briefly presented. Data is acquired in real time by a high-speed computer-controlled VME system. The scan parameters and image filtering are also computer-controlled. The first images recorded using this new apparatus are given, along with the preliminary comparative dosimetric analysis.