This novel invention creates a composite image from two images of the source, using uniformly redundant array coded aperture collimators.  This increases the signal-to-noise ratio, making it easy to eliminate background artifacts and detect the signal. Theoretical validation of the approach has been obtained using Monte Carlo techniques to simulate detection of a breast tumor.  Funding is currently being sought for development of a hardware prototype.

Background:

SPECT produces images of the body by detecting gamma ray photons emitted from radioactive isotopes injected into the body to illuminate specific organs.  This technology is frequently used to produce images of tumors.  SPECT has advantages over other methods in that true 3-D images are easily obtained, appropriate radiopharmaceuticals are less costly and more easily used, and the technology is particularly well-suited for imaging certain types of tissue.  However, current methods for deriving SPECT images require design tradeoffs between sensitivity and spatial resolution.  In addition, the presence of background artifacts in the image may lead to a false diagnosis, which has significant and broad-ranging implications.  As a consequence, the full potential of the technology for medical imaging has yet to be realized.

Potential Benefits:

·         Improved image resolution -  Lowers number of false diagnoses using SPECT technology

·         Faster - Reduces time required to obtain SPECT image

Potential Applications:

·         SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography)

IP Status:

Patent No. 6\580,939 "Method and System for Reducing Background Artifacts From Uniformly Redundant Array Collimators in Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography" Issued June 17, 2003

Inventors:

·         Dr. Roy Chaney

·         Dr. Olga Vassilieva

ID Number: MP 99-004

Contact: Becky Stoughton, email: rebecca.stoughton@utdallas.edu, phone: 972-883-4574