An iterative image reconstruction algorithm for SPECT

Properties of two algorithms for iterative reconstruction of SPECT images, LS-MLEM and LS-OSEM,are studied and compared with the ML-EM algorithm in this paper. By using projection data of heavy-noise, their effectiveness in improving SPECT image quality is evaluated. A phantom with hot and cold lesion is used in the investigation. The reconstructed images using LS-MLEM or LS-OSEM show that there is not a rapid increase in image noise,and the "best" estimate is assuming that the reconstructed images satisfy the statistical model. The major advantage of using LS-MLEM or LS-OSEM algorithm in SPECT imaging is in their ability to accurately control for heavy-noise. And LS-OSEM algorithm obviously improves the convergence rate.