# Analyzer-based Phase-Contrast Orthopedic Imaging

> **NIH NIH R01** · ILLINOIS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · 2021 · $141,472

## Abstract

The proposed project concerns with evaluation of an analyzer-based phase contrast
imaging (ABI), for orthopedic imaging. ABI is a modality that uses x-ray refraction to
produce dramatic improvements in imaging of the soft tissues. ABI has been well
documented to produce extraordinary images at synchrotron facilities. We have
developed a breakthrough approach, now included into our full scale prototype that can
deliver images under 10sec. This prototype is design for breast imaging. The goal of the
proposed project supplement will be to evaluate its output in an expert reader study for
orthopedic imaging application and also assess if the system cost can be reduced. ABI
imaging offers many important potential benefits: 1) ABI has very high inherent soft-
tissue image contrast due to the physics of x-ray refraction and strong scatter rejection,
promising to provide clear visualization of bonnie structure as well as soft tissue which
includes muscles, ligament and tendons; 2) currently ABI is a planar-imaging method
like radiography, but can also be used in computed tomography (CT) modes; 3) ABI has
no need for injected contrast agent; 4) ABI has potential to reduce radiation dose; 5) the
image detail seen in ABI may ultimately eliminate the need follow CT or MRI imaging.
The main elements in this supplement will define the project's specific aims as follows: 1.
Evaluate existing imaging system using ex vivo foot and thumb specimens using expert
orthopedic surgeons and radiologist. 2) Optimize system cost by evaluating if a smaller
(therefore cheaper) detector and crystals can be used without performance reduction.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10269477
- **Project number:** 3R01EB023969-03S1
- **Recipient organization:** ILLINOIS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- **Principal Investigator:** Jovan G Brankov
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $141,472
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2018-07-15 → 2022-03-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10269477

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10269477, Analyzer-based Phase-Contrast Orthopedic Imaging (3R01EB023969-03S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10269477. Licensed CC0.

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