Evaluation of the Monte Carlo simulation of SPECT projection data using MCNP and SimSPECT

摘要

Simulation of the complete nuclear medicine imaging situation for SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) produces synthetic images that are useful in the analysis and improvement of existing imaging systems and in the design of new and improved systems. The simulation methods the authors employ are based on probabilistic numerical calculations (Monte Carlo); they require enormous amounts of computer time and employ highly complex models (the tomographic acquisition of images through intricate collimators). The presentation consists of three parts. In the first, they describe the techniques developed to achieve reasonable simulation times and the tools built to allow interactive and effective analysis and processing of the resultant synthetic images. In the next part, they explore the limitations of such techniques for performing simulations of medical imaging situations. In the final part, they describe the areas of research that are promising for increasing the quality and breadth of the simulation process.