Towards single ultra-low dose CT scan for both attenuation map creation and localization in PET-CT application

We have proposed the use of a single ultra-low dose CT scan for both attenuation map creation and localization purpose for PET applications. An adaptive filtering algorithm specifically for such imaging task has been developed to adequately reduce image noise and streaking artifacts and to provide clear delineation of major organs in low signal scanning conditions. Simulated ultra-low dose CT scans were used to evaluate the low-dose scan proposal and the associated adaptive filtering algorithm. The results demonstrated that with the use of a sophisticated pre-processing algorithm, we could utilize a single ultra-low dose CT scan to obtain accurate attenuation map and to provide excellent localization information for PET applications.