title: A scheme for assessing the performance characteristics of small field-of-view gamma cameras.
abstract: Existing protocols for assessing the performance characteristics of large field-of-view (LFOV) gamma cameras can be inappropriate and require modification for use with small field-of-view (SFOV) gamma camera systems. This communication proposes a generic scheme suitable for evaluating the performance characteristics of SFOV gamma cameras, based on modifications to the standard procedures of NEMA NU1-2007. Key differences in methodology between tests for LFOV and SFOV gamma cameras are highlighted along with the rationale for these changes. It is envisaged that this scheme will provide more appropriate methods for equipment characterisation, ensuring quality and consistency for all SFOV cameras.
authors.affiliation: Space Research Centre, Physics & Astronomy, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; Imaging Clinical Group, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Hospital Trust, West Bromwich B71 4HJ, UK. Electronic address: bsb13@le.ac.uk.
authors.forename: B S
authors.initials: BS
authors.lastname: Bhatia
authors.affiliation: Space Research Centre, Physics & Astronomy, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK.
authors.forename: S L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Bugby
authors.affiliation: Space Research Centre, Physics & Astronomy, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK.
authors.forename: J E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Lees
authors.affiliation: Medical Physics and Medical Imaging Unit, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
authors.forename: A C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Perkins
mesh_terms: D004867:Equipment Design; D015902:Gamma Cameras
keywords: Performance characteristics; Performance testing; Small field-of-view gamma camera