Image quality analysis for dual energy subtraction imaging with a femtosecond laser-based hard X-ray source

We present a study of image quality for dual energy subtraction imaging using an iodinated contrast agent and a femtosecond laser-based hard X-ray source. The INRS CPA laser (400 fs pulse focused on solid targets in a 3 /spl mu/m spot at 4 /spl times/ 10/sup 18/ W cm/sup -2/) was used to create a bright hard X-ray source (conversion efficiency of 10/sup -5/ in the characteristic K/sub /spl prop// line emission, 12 /spl mu/m X-ray source diameter). A model of image quality has been developed and been benchmarked with specific experiments using specially made angiography phantoms.