Abstract
Objective Radionuclides are commonly used as internal radiation sources for diagnostic imaging or external radiation sources for treatment purposes. As most radionuclides have a higher energy level than imaging X-ray tubes, radionuclides are rarely used as a transmission-based external imaging source. In this study, we designed and simulated an imaging model by using 192Ir as an external imaging source to investigate the feasibility of this new imaging method. The goal of this study is to build a portable and flexible dual-function platform that can conduct both imaging and radiation treatment by using a single radiation source. Methods This study uses the Monte Carlo (MC) method to simulate breast fan beam computed tomography (FBCT) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) by using 192Ir as an external source. The whole breast phantom is built from a real patient’s chest CT data. We designed an imaging model and embedded it into the Electron Gamma Shower (EGS) simulation environment. CBCT and FBCT data were obtained through EGS simulations. Different image processing techniques were applied to the data. Results A total of 47 images were reconstructed. Among these images, 16 images have high-density areas (lesions). Comparing with the original CT slices, the lesion volume from both FBCT and CBCT data sets can be identified. CBCT-reconstructed images contain more blurring and noise than FBCT images because of the scattering effects. Conclusion The 192Ir radionuclide can be used as a possible external radiation source for breast imaging. Considering 192Ir’s therapeutic application and outcomes from its imaging simulation by this study, a new imaging/therapy platform can be potentially created.
