Dual Energy X-ray for Quantitative Analysis of areal Bone Mineral Density (aBMD) using a stacked Flat Panel Detector (FPD)

Abstract

This study explores the application of a stacked flat panel detector (FPD) system for spectral dual-energy X-ray imaging aimed at quantifying areal bone mineral density (aBMD). The proposed technique enables single-exposure dual-energy acquisition using a conventional cone-beam X-ray source, eliminating the need for sequential exposures or specialized hardware. This method facilitates simultaneous high- and low-energy imaging by capturing energy-separated data directly at the detector level, thereby enhancing workflow efficiency and spatial alignment. Experimental validation using bone-equivalent phantoms demonstrates the system's potential for accurate aBMD estimation, with robustness against positional variation and tissue scatter. The findings suggest a promising pathway toward more accessible, portable, and cost-effective bone health assessment in clinical and point-of-care settings.