Using GATE for imaging applications

Abstract

GATE has been well validated by many groups over the past decade for several imaging applications, with particular emphasis in nuclear medicine (SPECT and PET), as well as X-ray and CT imaging. Although the initial focus of published studies was to demonstrate that GATE can accurately reproduce experimental results, the robustness of the toolkit allowed its application in different imaging studies such as: (a) optimization of detector geometry and components selection to design dedicated systems for particular applications; (b) production of imaging data to optimize reconstruction algorithms and correction techniques by separating penetrating, scattered and random events; (c) optimization of imaging protocols by allowing the in silico evaluation of alternative acquisition schemes; (d) exploitation of computational anthropomorphic phantoms to allow reproduction of clinical exams and study of alternative imaging protocols and (e) validation of motion and respiratory techniques by using anthropomorphic phantoms in combination with animal models. The current challenge is to now use GATE in order to provide answers to specific diseases and focused imaging problems, where the performance of imaging systems must be pushed to the limits. Taking into account the current shift of detector technology towards patient personalization, GATE and realistic human phantoms provide a valuable tool that overcomes several practical limitations (including cost) for the assessment of novel imaging systems and technologies. Several examples from recent EC projects show that GATE is a well validated tool, which is exploited in a continuously increasing number of imaging applications.