Invention:
This invention is a method for obtaining parallel projections (i.e. 2D planar images) of a 3D object without the use of a parallel bore collimator while offering improved resolution and decreased resolution degradation with increasing object depth. The method involves measuring the photon flux of a gamma photon emitting source from within the subject’s body in a novel fashion, and processing these measurements with computer software that utilizes a unique mathematical process.
Background:
Nuclear medical imaging encompasses scintigraphy (using internal radionuclides and gamma cameras to produce 2D images) and Single Photon Emission Tomography, or SPECT (producing 3D images through use of similar techniques combined with tomographic 3D reconstruction methods). 2D imaging methods utilizing collimators produce relatively low resolution images, and resolution degrades with greater depth of the imaged object. Existing methods that utilize coded apertures and semiconductor detectors for 2D nuclear imaging suffer from increased mechanical complexity while offering only marginal improvements in resolution degradation with depth in 3D objects.
Advantages:
- Enhanced resolution
- Decreased resolution degradation with increasing object depth
Applications:
- Planar, 2D nuclear medical imaging
- 3D nuclear medical imaging technologies like Single Positron Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
- Defense and homeland security
- Gamma ray astronomy
- Particle physics
- Early pharmaceutical development
- Molecular biology
Stage of development: Demonstrated proof of concept
