Minimisation of data transfer losses in the display of digitised scintigraphic images

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Abstract
The transfer of scintigraphic data to any type of display, and ultimately to the eye, is a data compression procedure which invariably leads to information loss. Unless this information loss is minimized, valuable image data may be discarded. Attempts to achieve data loss minimization have led to procedures using statistically equal levels for display and more recent histogram modification techniques, i.e. equalization and hyperbolization. An information theory to obtain the mean uncertainty (or entropy) per pixel in the intensity of the displayed image is presented. Statistical noise and the characteristics of the image are considered. Calculation of the best choice of grey or color levels for transfer loss minimization is possible, e.g., the best conditions for data transfer to the display are set up. A computer algorithm which carries out this function was written. Several different types of simulated phantom and human clinical images, were investigated. Improved perceptibility of many of these images was obtained, correlating with reduction in mean pixel uncertainty. Although the technique still requires some refinement, optimization of display characteristics for any transmitted image appears potentially feasible.