Spect Gamma Camera, Spect Scanner, and Uses of a Spect Gamma Camera

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes an advanced SPECT gamma camera suitable for nuclear medicine imaging, which uses a scintillator to convert incoming gamma rays (typically 100-250 keV) into light, a focusing device for directing the gamma rays, and a downstream microchannel plate-based electron multiplier (MCP-PMT) to convert, multiply, and detect the resulting electrons. The new design achieves better spatial resolution and a much more compact and lighter form factor compared to traditional SPECT cameras, enabling easier use in scanners and a broader range of imaging geometries.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Medical diagnostics for cancer and other diseases using SPECT imaging
• 3D imaging of radiopharmaceutical distribution in patients (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography)
• Planar nuclear medicine scintigraphy (2D imaging)
• Preclinical imaging for small animals in research settings
• Compact imaging systems for portable or mobile nuclear medicine units

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly reduced size and weight compared to conventional SPECT gamma cameras, making scanners more compact and less expensive
• Improved spatial resolution due to the fine structure of the microchannel plate and specialized anode designs
• Versatility in scanning geometries (e.g., spherical, ellipsoidal), enabling more flexible diagnostic approaches
• Potential integration of electronics and scintillator within the MCP-PMT unit, further simplifying and miniaturizing the system
• Lower cost of scanner manufacturing and maintenance due to mechanical simplicity and reduced mass
• Facilitates high-resolution imaging in both clinical and preclinical (animal) environments

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a SPECT gamma camera (10) comprising a scintillator (1) to convert incoming gamma quanta (?) having radiation energy especially in the 100 keV to 250 keV range into secondary quanta of light (h v ), a focusing device (2) mounted upstream of the scintillator to focus the incoming gamma quanta (?), and at least one microchannel plate-type secondary electron multiplier (MCP-PMT) mounted downstream of the scintillator (1). The MCP-PMT has a photocathode (3) to convert the incident secondary quanta of light (h v ) into secondary electrons (e-), at least one cascading microchannel plate (4) mounted downstream of the photocathode (3) to multiply the incoming secondary electrons (e-), at least one photoanode (5), and a signal output (6), at which a voltage signal (S), which is generated as a result of the multiplied secondary electrons (e-) impinging on the photoanode (5), can be output.