RPI ID: 2014-032-201

Innovation Summary:
This technology provides a method to reconstruct attenuation maps for positron emission tomography (PET) using only time-of-flight (TOF) emission data. The system does not require a separate CT scan or any prior knowledge of specific anatomical subregions, which simplifies the imaging workflow. Instead, the approach estimates the gradients of the attenuation sinogram and reconstructs the map using gradient integration. This enables standalone PET systems with full attenuation correction capabilities. The technique reduces patient radiation exposure and streamlines hybrid imaging system requirements. It also enhances flexibility in clinical and research settings where CT may not be available or desirable. By enabling PET-only attenuation correction, the technology supports broader access to functional imaging and expands use cases for PET technology.

Challenges / Opportunities:
Traditional PET imaging systems rely on CT scans to provide attenuation correction, increasing patient dose and system cost. The dual-modality setup also limits portability and adds mechanical complexity. This invention solves these problems by extracting attenuation information directly from the emission data, bypassing the need for structural imaging. It opens opportunities for fully integrated PET-only scanners and reduces imaging burden on patients. The technology is especially useful in mobile or resource-limited settings, and for longitudinal studies requiring repeated imaging with minimal dose.

Key Benefits / Advantages:
✔ CT-free attenuation correction
✔ Reduces radiation dose
✔ Enables standalone PET systems

Applications:
• Nuclear medicine
• Oncology imaging
• PET scanner design

Keywords:
#attenuationmap #TOFPET #PETcorrection #medicalimaging

Intellectual Property:
US Issued Patent 9,600,910 B2