Basic performance of the PET scanner, EXACT HR/sup +/, with adjustable data-acquisition parameters

The performance of ECAT EXACT HR/sup +/ (Siemens/CTI) was analyzed with reference to the following adjustable data-acquisition parameters in the operation software: maximum ring difference, span, angular compression and overlap. The standard protocol by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) was followed with minor modification. Scanner performance such as sensitivity and resolution was shown to be dependent on the parameters in a variety of manners in the three-dimensional mode. The advantages and disadvantages of altering the data-acquisition parameters were discussed. It was concluded that the data-acquisition parameters should be carefully selected for a specific clinical situation in order to maximize the efficiency of PET measurement.