External trigger signals can be used to introduce gating signals into the PET data stream. During PET image reconstruction, this gating signal is used to synchronize data from different time points to the external trigger signal. In this way, i.e. cardiac or respiration synchronized image movies can be reconstructed from a continuous PET data acquisition.

Since trigger signals might also be required at the same time for triggering MR data acquisition, the trigger signal of an external trigger source (i.e. animal monitoring system) is routed through a trigger splitter board located inside the PET electronic cabinet. The signal is internally routed to the PET acquisition system and externally routed back to the MR instrument. The trigger board provides the required galvanic isolation, ESD and overvoltage protection between the different users of the trigger signal. Never use T-BNC fittings to split trigger signals.

 

Note: You need to have the PET switched ON to use triggering of MR scans.

 

 

If images shall be reconstructed based on the gating signal, select the checkbox “Gated Reconstruction” in the reconstruction page of the PV360 PET method card and select the required input signals and number of frames that shall be used for the image reconstruction.

Select gated reconstruction for cardiac or respiration image reconstruction based on external gating signals. Please refer to the PV360 application manual for a full description of the PET imaging method and it’s acquisition and reconstruction parameter.