written by J.J. Battista and K. Jordan

Computed tomography (CT) is a 3-dimensional (3D) imaging technique used routinely in diagnostic medicine and treatment planning. Laboratory exercises are important for experiential learning, but they are difficult to implement on clinical equipment. In addition to potential radiation hazards, modifications to clinical hardware or software are risky. An analogous optical CT scanner offers advantages for instructional purposes because of safety and portability. Translucent test objects are relatively easy to fabricate and the visibility of light allows students to observe the image-formation rays directly. We describe a commercial optical cone-beam scanner (DeskCATTM) that models both x-ray computed tomography and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). This educational tool is used in over 50 universities and colleges around the world.

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Last Modified July 11, 2018