Development of anisotropic nonlinear noise-reduction algorithm for computed tomography data with context dynamic threshold

The article deals with the development of the noise-reduction algorithm based on anisotropic nonlinear data filtering of computed tomography (CT). Analysis of domestic and foreign literature has shown that the most effective algorithms for noise reduction of CT data use complex methods for analyzing and processing data, such as bilateral, adaptive, three-dimensional and other types of filtrations. However, a combination of such techniques is rarely used in practice due to long processing time per slice. In this regard, it was decided to develop an efficient and fast algorithm for noise-reduction based on simplified bilateral filtration method with three-dimensional data accumulation. The algorithm was developed on C++11 programming language in Microsoft Visual Studio 2015. The main difference of the developed noise reduction algorithm is the use an improved mathematical model of CT noise, based on the distribution of Poisson and Gauss from the logarithmic value, developed earlier by our team. This allows a more accurate determination of the noise level and, thus, the threshold of data processing. As the result of the noise reduction algorithm, processed CT data with lower noise level were obtained. Visual evaluation of the data showed the increased information content of the processed data, compared to original data, the clarity of the mapping of homogeneous regions, and a significant reduction in noise in processing areas. Assessing the numerical results of the algorithm showed a decrease in the standard deviation (SD) level by more than 6 times in the processed areas, and high rates of the determination coefficient showed that the data were not distorted and changed only due to the removal of noise. Usage of newly developed context dynamic threshold made it possible to decrease SD level on every area of data. The main difference of the developed threshold is its simplicity and speed, achieved by preliminary estimation of the data array and derivation of the threshold values that are put in correspondence with each pixel of the CT. The principle of its work is based on threshold criteria, which fits well both into the developed noise reduction algorithm based on anisotropic nonlinear filtration, and another algorithm of noise-reduction. The algorithm successfully functions as part of the MultiVox workstation and is being prepared for implementation in a single radiological network of the city of Moscow.