Comparison of three reconstruction algorithms for low-dose phase-contrast computed tomography of the breast with synchrotron radiation

Abstract

Background: Phase-contrast breast CT imaging holds promise for improved diagnostic accuracy, but an optimal reconstruction algorithm must balance objective image quality metrics with subjective radiologist preferences. Purpose: This study systematically compares three reconstruction algorithms—filtered back projection (FBP), unified tomographic reconstruction (UTR), and customized simultaneous algebraic reconstruction technique (cSART)—to identify the most suitable approach for phase-contrast breast CT imaging. Methods: Fresh mastectomy samples were scanned at the Australian synchrotron using monochromatic 32 keV X-rays, a mean glandular dose of 2 mGy, flat-panel detectors with 0.1 mm pixels..