Gamma Camera Acceptance Testing: The First Quality Control

Abstract

Objective: When a gamma camera is delivered, it should be evaluated to verify that it meets the performance level promised by the specifications.

Methods: We explain the protocol we used for evaluating camera performance as an acceptance test for a newly installed system using the principles of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association guidelines.

Results: Acceptance testing is the ideal way to determine if an imaging system’s specifications are appropriate for the nuclear medicine department’s needs without performing NEMA tests.

Conclusion: The recommendations we offer have been useful for us in testing our most recently acquired single-head, large-field scintillation camera system, but the protocol for acceptance is a highly individual choice and may vary with different departments.