Development and validation of a simulation tool for K-edge Subtraction imaging with polychromatic spectra and X-ray photon counting detectors

In K-Edge Subtraction (KES) imaging the K-edge of a high-Z contrast medium is used to generate a differential image in which, in principle, only the contrast agent is visible, suppressing any background. A possible approach to KES imaging is by using polychromatic spectra and spectral X-ray photon counting detectors (XPCD). In this paper we present the development and validation of a simulation tool for KES imaging with spectral XPCD. In addition an analytical formula, based on theoretical considerations, is derived, that further supports the simulation results. The validation is made on experimental data obtained with an X-ray tube, an iodine-based contrast agent, and Pixirad-1/Pixie-III detection system.