Which component is crucial for coincidence detection in PET scanning?

In the context of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanning, coincidence detection is a critical aspect of the imaging process. This detection occurs when two gamma photons, emitted from a positron annihilation event, are detected simultaneously by the PET system. The light detector decay constant plays a vital role in this process.

The decay constant of the light detector is essential for determining how quickly the detector can respond to incoming signals. A rapid response is necessary for accurately identifying the simultaneous detection of the two photons. If the detector has a slower decay constant, it may not accurately capture the timing of the photon events, leading to reduced spatial resolution and impaired image quality.

Furthermore, a properly configured light detector helps ensure that the system can differentiate between true coincident events (where the photons originate from the same annihilation event) and random coincident events (where the photons are detected together but come from different sources). This differentiation is crucial for producing high-quality images and improving the overall diagnostic value of the PET scan.

While other components like gradient coils, high voltage power supplies, and pixel arrays are important for overall operation and functionality, they do not directly relate to the fundamental aspect of coincidence detection in PET imaging. Their functions support the imaging process but