Diagnostic image reconstruction from projection data includes generating projection data followed by a convolution of the same. The convolved projection data is then scaled into unsigned, fixed precision words of a predetermined number of bits. The words are then split into a predetermined number of colour channels corresponding to colour channels of a multi-colour rendering engine (150). Simultaneously and independently, the split words are backprojected along each of the colour channels to obtain backprojected views for each colour channel. The backprojected views for each colour channel are accumulated to produce separate colour images corresponding to each colour channel. Finally, the separate colour images are recombined to produce an output image. In a preferred embodiment, prior to the convolution of the projection data, a rebinning operation is performed to ensure that the projection data is in a parallel format. In addition, after convolving the projection data, a selective pre-interpolating step of linear or higher order is optionally performed on the projection data. <IMAGE>
Image reconstruction using multi-color graphics-rendering hardware