Image quality evaluation of a selenium-based flat-panel digital X-ray detector system based on animal studies

The x-ray flat-panel detector (FPD) will be a key component of the coming generation of x-ray imaging systems. FPD systems applicable to both fluoroscopy and radiography especially, will be the prime candidate to replace current image intensifier x-ray (IIXR-TV) systems. Nevertheless, IIXR-TV systems which have recently been improved by the addition of CCD cameras, have established themselves over time by offering good image quality which in most cases clinicians appear to be satisfied with. It will thus take a substantial improvement in image quality combined with a new ease of use due to reduced physical size for new FPDs to replace those systems that have evolved over many decades. Our group has been developing a selenium-based FPD which has superior spatial resolution characteristics. The purpose of this research is to elucidate the FPD's potential to replace IIXR-TV systems by offering improved image quality. Detailed measurements of physical characteristics were made and extensive in vivo animal studies were conducted. It can be concluded that the FPD's demonstrated superior image quality appears to have the potential to improve clinical performance.