Results from X-Ray Microtomography Studies of Gallbladder Stones

Abstract

Results are presented from in vitro investigations of gallbladder stones using X-ray microtomography with radiation energy of 17.5 keV. Linear absorption coefficients of gallstones that were obtained in the experiment are compared to corresponding coefficients calculated using reference data for pure cholesterol. The possibility of using X-ray microtomography to investigate the morphological structure of concrements is demonstrated. The stones are found to have cavities and layered formations. The phase composition of the stones is determined via powder diffraction.