Optimization of the signal-to-background ratio in prompt gamma imaging using energy- and shifting time-of-flight discrimination: experiments with a scanning parallel-slit collimator

Much attention is currently being paid to imaging prompt gamma (PG) rays for in vivo proton range monitoring in proton therapy. PG imaging using a collimator is affected by neutron-related background. We study the effectiveness of background reduction experimentally, using a scanning parallel-slit PG collimator as a simplified model of a...

Time-resolved imaging of prompt-gamma rays for proton range verification using a knife-edge slit camera based on digital photon counters

Proton range monitoring may facilitate online adaptive proton therapy and improve treatment outcomes. Imaging of proton-induced prompt gamma (PG) rays using a knife-edge slit collimator is currently under investigation as a potential tool for real-time proton range monitoring. A major challenge in collimated PG imaging is the suppression of...

A fast preamplifier concept for SiPM-based time-of-flight PET detectors

Silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) offer high gain and fast response to light, making them interesting for fast timing applications such as time-of-flight (TOF) PET. To fully exploit the potential of these photosensors, dedicated preamplifiers that do not deteriorate the rise time and signal-to-noise ratio are crucial. Challenges include the high...

An enhanced high-resolution EMCCD-based gamma camera using SiPM side detection

To improve multi-pinhole single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) devices we are developing a high-resolution gamma detector consisting of a 3-mm-thick scintillation crystal that converts gamma photons to light, on top of an optically coupled high-resolution, high-sensitivity light sensor (EMCCD). This gamma camera can detect...

Simulation of silicon photomultiplier signals

In a silicon photomultiplier (SiPM), also referred to as multi-pixel photon counter (MPPC), many Geiger-mode avalanche photodiodes (GM-APDs) are connected in parallel so as to combine the photon counting capabilities of each of these so-called microcells into a proportional light sensor. The discharge of a single microcell is relatively well...

Signal to Noise Ratio of APD-Based Monolithic Scintillator Detectors for High Resolution PET

Experimental characterization of monolithic-crystal small animal PET detectors read out by APD arrays