Feasibility Study of Neutron Mammography Using MCNPX with a Breast Voxel Anthropomorphic Phantom
摘要
Neutron radiography represents a nondestructive testing method using neutron beams instead of X-rays or gamma rays for imaging purposes. This approach offers distinct advantages, particularly in its enhanced interaction with light atoms and materials, facilitating the visualization of concealed structural intricacies. This study investigated the applicability of neutron radiography in mammography. Monte Carlo simulations, employing voxel phantoms, are pivotal in analyzing neutron interactions within objects or biological bodies. Specifically, this study uses MCNPX 2.5.0 alongside a high-resolution breast voxel phantom. Grayscale postprocessing methods were implemented to refine image contrast. The findings underscore the contrast enhancement achieved through influence of varied neutron energies. Notably, fast neutrons sourced from the fission spectrum manifest better overall contrast. However, further investigations are warranted to optimize possible in-beam collimation, conduct dose assessments, and juxtapose neutron radiography with conventional photon mammography. This study underscores the potential of neutron radiography in medical imaging and delineates pathways for future research and development endeavors.