Digital flat-panel X-ray technology based on cesium iodide and amorphous silicon: experimental studies and preliminary clinical results.

Purpose: Experimental and clinical evaluation of a digital flat-panel X-ray system based on cesium iodide (CsI) and amorphous silicon (a-Si). Methods: Performance of a prototype detector was compared with conventional screen- film radiography (SFR) using several phantom studies. Foreign bodies, fract ures, osteolyses, and pulmonary lesions were analyzed. Additionally, 120 pa tients were studied prospectively, resulting in 400 comparative X-ray studi es. The fiat-panel detector was exposed with standard dose and with a dose reduction of up to 75%. Detector size was 15 x 15 cm, pixel matrix was 1 x Ik with a pixel size of 143 mu m. Modulation-transfer function was determin ed to be 18% at the maximum spatial resolution of 3.5 Ip/mm. Results: The d iagnostic results achieved with the digital detector were similar to those of conventional SFR; even at reduced radiation exposure. A potential for do se reduction was observed: 50% with respect to osteoarthrosis and fractures , end 75% for determining bony alignment. Discussion: This new technology c an be used in thoracic and skeletal radiography. A significant dose reducti on is possible, depending on the suspected disease.