ABSTRACT

This chapter presents a framework for applying Monte Carlo simulations for a wide range of problems in nuclear medicine dosimetry. It also presents some computational aspects of the Monte Carlo method, mainly related to the generation of random numbers, sampling and variance reduction techniques. Monte Carlo techniques have become one of the most popular tools in different areas of medical physics following the development and subsequent implementation of powerful computing systems for clinical use. In most cases, Monte Carlo calculations are used to simulate the random distribution of sources or targets whereas the actual dosimetric calculation is performed using the so-called dose-point kernels. The chapter summarizes potential areas of application of Monte Carlo techniques in nuclear imaging. Imaging therapeutic doses would further confirm the hypothesis that the biodistribution is similar; however, generation scintillation cameras are unable to handle accurately the corresponding high counting rate.