First results from the BNL/Penn PET-MRI system for whole body rodent imaging at 9.4T

Abstract

A new PET system has been developed for the purposes of simultaneous PET/MR whole body rodent imaging in conjunction with a Varian large-bore 9.4T MRI system with a commercial Insight birdcage coil. The detector and readout technology is based on that developed for the RatCAP PET system, resulting in a highly robust and compact design that is compatible with MRI systems at the highest field strength. Testing of the full readout chain has shown a successful implementation of both modalities, with indications of only modest cross-interference on MRI image quality or PET detection efficiency. The final design cycle is complete, and supports operation of the full system with upgrades to the data acquisition electronics, firmware, and software. First results from the complete PET system will be presented, including preliminary imaging and tests of interference between modalities.