Micro-CT Performance Testing

The rapid proliferation of micro-CT scanners in preclinical small animal studies has created a need for a method on scanner performance evaluation and scan parameter optimization. The purpose of this study was to develop and manufacture a micro-CT phantom that enables to measure both scanner performance and long term stability. The phantom was developed with different independent sections that allow to measure major scanner characteristics such as uniformity, linearity, contrast response, dosimetry and resolution. The results of a thorough investigation of scanner characteristics and scan parameter optimization are discussed.