Electron Beam Computed Tomography
Electron beam computed tomography
Electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) is a specific form of computed tomography (CT) in which the X-ray tube is not mechanically spun in order to rotate the source of X-ray photons. This different design was explicitly developed to better image heart structures that never stop moving, performing a complete cycle of movement with each heartbeat.
As in conventional CT technology, the X-ray source-point moves along a circle in space around an object to be imaged. In EBCT, the X-ray tube itself is large and stationary, and partially surrounds the imaging circle. Rather than moving the tube itself, electron-beam focal point (and hence the X-ray source point) is swept electronically along a tungsten anode in the tube, tracing a large circular arc on its inner surface. This motion can be very fast.
Wikipedia contributors. "Electron beam computed tomography." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, March 7, 2024.
See presentation by Simon Spannagel (DESY) here