A Method for Simulating Mammograms
Abstract
This project is to facilitate research in digital mammography and related technologies, in particular computer aided diagnosis and image processing. A major limitation to the rapid development and subsequent clinical implementation of these technologies is the lack of a standardized set of mammograms to be used in development and evaluation. We are developing a method to produce simulated mammograms. The method relies on a model of image formation that takes into account the absorption of x-rays in the phosphor, subsequent conversion to light and the scattering of the light before escaping the phosphor. The model also takes into account the finite thickness of the phosphor, the divergence of the x-ray beam, scattered radiation, and noise due to film granularity and from the film digitizer. Almost all the components of the model are completed and computer code is being written. We are now testing the model using x-ray phantoms. We are comparing simulated images created based on a high quality film radiograph to an image acquired using a mammographic screen-film system. The resolution properties of the simulated image closely match that of a real image, but the noise properties differ. We are in the process of determining why there is a difference.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA410853
Entities
People
- Robert Nishikawa
Organizations
- University of Chicago