The optimization of signal detectability in digital fluoroscopy.

An optimization analysis of digital fluoroscopy has been carried out using (signal/noise)2/dose as a figure of merit. Three signal detection tasks have been considered: (i) small iodine-containing blood vessels; (ii) regions of fat; and (iii) microcalcifications. The effects of x-ray beam filtration and kilovoltage on the figure of merit have been parameterized and the associated x-ray tube power loadings have been defined. Results are presented in a fashion that facilitates the choice of parameters (amount of aluminum filtration, kilovoltage, and x-ray tube power loading) such that an acceptable balance can be achieved between signal detection sensitivity, patient dose, and x-ray tube power loading.