Gamma camera imaging in an undergraduate physics course

TL;DR

This paper introduces a teaching approach for gamma camera imaging in undergraduate physics courses, using simulations and exercises to demonstrate nuclear medicine imaging concepts without handling radioactive materials.

Contribution

It presents a practical, accessible method for teaching gamma camera imaging concepts through simulations and hands-on activities suitable for undergraduates.

Findings

Effective visualization of gamma camera principles

Enhanced student understanding of nuclear imaging

Accessible teaching method without radioactive materials

Abstract

Gamma camera imaging is an important technique in nuclear medicine. It is capable of diagnostic imaging of metabolically active areas and organ function, and it can be used to evaluate blood flow in the heart muscle, measure bone growth, detect tumors, and perform many other medical studies. It is a real world application that integrates concepts in medicine, nuclear physics, geometric optics, data processing, calibration, and image formation. This paper provides an overview of gamma camera imaging intended for an intermediate-level undergraduate physics course for students majoring in STEM disciplines. Because working with radioactive materials is not practical in our setting, we use an approach involving paper-and-pencil exercises, visible light apparatus, and computer work.