OBJECTIVETo investigate the effect of detector performance during digital breast tomography (DBT) projection data acquisition on reconstructed image quality.

METHODSWith reference to the traditional detector data correction method and the specific data acquisition pattern in DBT imaging, we utilized dark field correction, light field and its gain correction for processing the projection data collected by the detector. The reconstructed images were evaluated using iterative reconstruction method based on total generalized variation (TGV).

RESULTSIn physical breast phantom experiment, the proposed method resulted in a reduced Heel effect caused by nonuniform photon number. The reconstructed DBT images after correction showed obviously improved image quality especially in the details with a low contrast.

CONCLUSIONThe dark field correction, light field and its gain correction process for DBT image reconstruction can improve the image quality.