CT scout z-resolution improvement with image restoration methods

Currently, new applications demand utilizing CT scout images for diagnostic purposes. However, many CT scout images cannot be used diagnostically due to their poor resolution, particularly in the direction of table movement. Spatial resolution generally can be improved with image restoration techniques. Based on the principles of Wiener filtering and inverse filtering, this paper presents a modified Wiener filtering approach in the frequency domain. The concept of equivalent target point spread function is introduced, which makes the restoration process steerable. Consequently, balancing resolution improvement with noise suppression is facilitated. Experiments compare the image quality with traditional inverse filtering and Wiener filtering. The modified Wiener filtering method has been shown to restore the scout image with higher resolution and lower noise.