We present data on a first prototype for photon counting tomosynthesis imaging of small children, which we call photoncounting
tomosynthesis (PCT). A photon counting detector can completely eliminate electronic noise, which makes it
ideal for tomosynthesis because of the low dose in each projection. Another advantage is that the detector allows for
energy sensitivity in later versions, which will further lower the radiation dose. In-plane resolution is high and has been
measured to be 5 lp/mm, at least 4 times better than in CT, while the depth resolution was significantly lower than
typical CT resolution. The image SNR decreased from 30 to 10 for a detail of 10 mm depth in increasing thickness of
PMMA from 10 to 80 mm. The air kerma measured for PCT was 5.2 mGy, which leads to an organ dose to the brain of
approximately 0.7 mGy. This dose is 96 % lower than a typical CT dose. PCT can be appealing for pediatric imaging
since young children have an increased sensitivity to radiation induced cancers. We have acquired post mortem images
of a newborn with the new device and with a state-of-the-art CT and compared the diagnostic information and dose
levels of the two modalities. The results are promising but more work is needed to provide input to a next generation
prototype that would be suitable for clinical trials.
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