Depth-dependent scatter distribution in diagnostic radiology

The scatter point spread function (PSF) in diagnostic radiology is examined at various depths in a homogeneous phantom. A gaussian distribution is used as the PSF model. Various phantom thicknesses, air gaps, imaging techniques, and presence of grid/no grid are used in conjunction with a lead disk beam stop technique to parameterize the PSF. A deconvulution filter determined from the PSF is used to remove image scatter components. Preliminary results indicate a limitation in the deconvulution method due to undercompensation and/or overcompensation of the scatter components. A measurement at the center of mass of the object appears to give the best compromise for scatter removal throughout the object