First PET imaging results with continuous LYSO crystals and monolithic, 64-pixel SiPM matrices

The University of Pisa and INFN Pisa are developing a prototype of a small animal PET tomograph employing continuous LYSO crystals and silicon photom ultiplier (SiPM) matrices as photodetectors. The Center for Scientific and Technological Research (FBK-irst) has developed monolithic, 64 pixel SiPM matrices for their use in the PET scanner. The IFIC-Valencia collaborates in the characterization of the first detector heads, and in the construction of a first prototype for proof of concept. The detector heads are composed of continuous 12 mm × 12 mm × 5 mm LYSO crystals coupled to the matrices. The characterization of the detectors has been completed, and a first test prototype consisting of two rotating heads has been developed, assessing the feasibility of operating the system.