BazookaSPECT - A High Resolution, Modular Gamma Camera

Background: A new innovation in SPECT imaging, called the BazookaSPECT detector, has been developed at the Department of Radiology. The BazookaSPECT is a low-cost, ultra-high resolution (70um) gamma camera for small-animal SPECT and molecular imaging.The BazookaSPECT gamma camera relies on a unique combination of optics, an image intensifier, a structured scintillator, and a fast CCD. The scintillator is directly coupled to the image intensifier resulting in upfront-optical amplification of scintillation light. This optical amplification negates light-loss in the system allowing for (i) the use of thicker scintillators, thus improving gamma-ray collection efficiency, and (ii) the use of a high-resolution, fast-frame-rate CCD.  Applications: * Small animal SPECT* Molecular imaging* Gamma-ray microscopy* Beta camera* Clinical small format imager for nuclear medicine imaging* Homeland Security Advantages: * Works with both low- and high-energy gamma rays, providing flexibility for a range of applications.* Portable, light-tight system with no camera cooling necessary, for ease of use.* Low cost system, providing broad application of gamma cameras. The Technology: The BazookaSPECT detector utilizes an image intensifier, a structured scintillator (e.g. columnar CsI(Tl)), optical-coupling system, and a high-resolution, high-speed CCD. This unique combination results in a low-cost, high-resolution gamma-ray detector which can operate at high-counting rates. A large area gamma camera can be constructed by combining multiple BazookaSPECT modules Stage of Development: Multiple fully-functional devices with software have been built. Seeking commercial partner to license. Lead Inventors: Prof. Harrison Barrett; Prof. Lars Furenlid; Prof. H. Bradford Barber, Brian Miller Status: U.S. Patent 7,928,397 issued 4/19/2011 Refer to Case No. UA08-020

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