Rapid cone-beam computed tomography using an ultra-high frame rate imaging photon counting detector (PCD) with 100 μm resolution

Photon counting detectors (PCDs) with their low noise, high spatial and contrast resolution, and dual energy imaging capabilities are shown to be prospective candidates for Cone-Beam CT (CBCT) vascular imaging. The ultra-high frame rate capability of such detectors can enable CBCT at scan speeds far greater than that of current CBCT scanners which can only go up to about 0.14 rev/s (50 degrees/sec) compared to current multislice CT scanners that can achieve 3-4 rev/s. XCounter's Actaeon PCD with frame rates up to 1000 fps can achieve CBCT scans at multi-slice CT scanner rates. The CdTe Actaeon PCD with pixel pitch of 100 μm and dual energy direct acquisition capability has built-in electronic anti-charge sharing correction. CBCT of a moving wire was demonstrated with the Actaeon PCD at these higher speeds and shown to be able to eliminate the effect of acquisition system image motion blur. Also a patient-specific 3D printed vascular phantom with a stent deployed was imaged at high frame rates using the Actaeon for CBCT acquisition with reconstruction using an FDK algorithm and the maximum intensity projection images clearly showed individual strut detail. This feasibility study will lead to exploration of new possibilities of high frame-rate imaging with PCDs and their potential applications.