Fabrication of Gelatin-Based Phantom for Evaluating Computed Tomography (CT) Image Noise

Abstract

This study aimed to fabricate a gelatin-based phantom and evaluate its effectiveness in assessing CT image noise compared with a commercially available phantom. A quantitative true experimental design was utilized, employing bovine gelatin and sucrose to create a tissue-equivalent phantom. The fabricated phantom was examined using regulated CT parameters, and image quality metrics including mean Hounsfield Unit (HU), standard deviation, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and noise power spectrum (NPS) were evaluated. The results indicated that the fabricated phantom yielded consistent HU values and stable noise measurements, confirming its efficacy for dependable CT image assessment. In comparison to the commercial phantom, the fabricated phantom demonstrated marginally reduced image noise and revealed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05), suggesting disparities in material composition and imaging response. Despite these differences, the gelatin-based phantom proved to be as a realistic and economical substitute for CT quality assurance, especially in resource-constrained environments. The results indicate that locally constructed phantoms can facilitate imaging instruction, research, and initial quality control, while providing accessibility and flexibility for future enhancement.