The analysis of densitometry image of bone tissue based on computer simulation of X-ray radiation propagation through plate model

In this work, we have presented an attempt at the computer modelling of the attenuation effect of X-ray radiation which occurs in the densitometry test. The purpose of the modelling is to examine the extent to which the parameters of the plate model of bone tissue affect bone mineral density (BMD) parameter. In the modelling the fundamental functions realised by a densitometry device have been taken into consideration. Certain necessary assumptions simplifying the computation of the complex physical processes that occur during the transition of X-ray radiation through an object have been made. In order to compute the image produced by interaction of radiation the attenuation law is applied. The modelling of an object consists in defining its dimensions and its material characteristics. In the presented simulation the material characteristics of the object are limited to its attenuation coefficient. A different value of the coefficient can be defined for each voxel. The result image is produced by the calculation of partial attenuation in the individual voxels. The levels of grey in the image represent the value of the computed radiation intensity which is recorded in the "detector" after transition through the object. The simulation has been performed for the plate model representing trabecular bone tissue with 0.1mm porosity compartments. The results of the simulation of the plate model are presented. It can be observed that for certain modelled porosity compartments the size, structure and spatial arrangement are not properly recorded in the two-dimensional "detector". The recorded simulation results may be found useful for explaining difference that has been noticed between the BMD obtained from the densitometry test and the bone susceptibility to fracture.