A demonstrator for a new axial PET concept

In PET imaging, improving sensitivity while maintaining very good spatial resolution is crucial. To achieve this goal, we propose a novel concept of PET scanner, with axially arranged crystals, providing a high sensitivity and a 3D reconstruction of the gamma interaction point. The trans-axial coordinate is given by the crystal hit, while the z coordinate is reconstructed by the weighted distribution of light escaping the crystal and entering into an array of Wave Length Shifting (WLS) strips interleaving the crystal layers. This novel configuration allows full identification of Compton interactions in the crystals that can be included in image reconstruction thus enhancing the sensitivity. We present preliminary results obtained by a small prototype consisting of 4×4 crystals with orthogonally interleaved WLS strips. Experimental data are compared to simulated data.