Which of the following is an advantage of having a larger field of view (FOV) in PET detectors?

Having a larger field of view (FOV) in PET detectors directly contributes to high sensitivity. A larger FOV allows for more coincident events to be detected from different angles around the patient's body, improving the likelihood of detecting gamma photons emitted after positron annihilation. This means that a greater number of events can be recorded, which enhances the sensitivity of the imaging system.

In practical terms, higher sensitivity allows for the detection of smaller lesions and improves the overall quality of the imaging. This can be particularly important in oncology, where the early detection of tumors can significantly impact treatment outcomes. A larger FOV does not necessarily reduce scan time, increase patient comfort, or directly improve image resolution, although it can have secondary effects on these aspects due to the increased number of detected events leading to more efficient imaging techniques. However, the primary and immediate advantage of a larger FOV in PET is its contribution to sensitivity, making it easier to capture the metabolic information needed for accurate diagnosis and evaluation.