New computed radiography technologies in digital radiography

Digital radiography (DR) has become integral to modern diagnostic radiology. One of the earliest forms of DR, computed radiography (CR) using storage phosphors, has established itself as the mainstay of DR-based diagnostic imaging over the past 20 years. More recently, flat-panel DR systems based on solid state X-ray detectors with integrated, large-area, active-matrix readout electronics are promising further improvements in clinical workflow and image quality. Despite CR's longevity, innovations continue to be made. New developments in CR screen technologies, like structured (needle) screens, and new scanner concepts based on line-at-a-time reading promise major improvements in image quality (comparable to that of flat-panel systems), system throughput and physical size, at a cost comparable to that of today's systems.Thus, despite the advent of flat-panel acquisition systems,there will still be an important role for CR in the foreseeable future. After a brief review of the current state of CR technology,this paper will explore several of these new CR developments and present some examples of their potential clinical impact.