Modular detector systems for nuclear medicine imaging

Modular detectors provide system design flexibility that makes possible the development of many imaging systems not possible through the use of more traditional approaches such as employing fixed ring configurations or large FOV (field-of-view) detectors. We have developed two such modular detector systems. The first is a small FOV modular gamma camera based on a position-sensitive photomultiplier tube (PSPMT) and single contiguous NaI(Tl) scintillation crystal. This detector can be used, for example, in the development of systems for planar single-photon emission imaging and for single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). The second is a modular panel based on an array of small FOV photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) and a pixilated array of LSO crystals. This detector can be used in development of systems for positron emission tomography (PET). For each modular detector, special signal-processing and computer-interface electronics have been designed and implemented in conjunction with its own radiation shielding, crystal or crystal array, PSPMT or PMTs, and computing processors. Such modular detectors can be employed as components of general-purpose or application-specific emission imaging systems for human (clinical or research) imaging or for laboratory animal imaging. Applications for which systems with modular detectors may be relevant include diagnostic imaging of humans in specialized clinical procedures and research imaging of animals for drug discovery and development, and for biotechnology development.