Simulation studies of dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry

Abstract

Computer simulations were performed to predict the performance characteristics of dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry. K‐edge filter techniques were analyzed in detail and compared to ¹⁵³Gd sources in terms of output intensity, precision, patient dose, image contrast, beam hardening, and marrow fat effects. Similar analyses were performed for two dual‐kV techniques that have been reported in the literature. The simulations indicate that K‐edge filter techniques, or a dual‐kV technique combined with K‐edge filtering, can provide performance capabilities that equal or exceed those achievable with ¹⁵³Gd systems. A (70/140) dual‐kV technique with conventional (Al or Cu) filtration also has advantages in terms of source output intensity, but is 2–3× inferior to the K‐edge techniques and ¹⁵³Gd in terms of patient dose and beam‐hardening effects.