How often should uniformity checks be conducted for PET equipment?

Uniformity checks for PET (Positron Emission Tomography) equipment are essential for ensuring consistent performance and image quality. Conducting these checks weekly is considered a best practice in maintaining the reliability of the equipment. This frequency allows for timely identification and correction of any deviations or inconsistencies that could arise in the system's functioning.

Weekly checks strike a balance between monitoring the equipment closely enough to catch potential issues early, without overwhelming the resources or personnel involved. Performing uniformity checks more frequently, such as daily, might not be necessary and could lead to unnecessary use of time and resources, especially when the equipment is operating within expected parameters. In contrast, conducting checks less frequently, such as quarterly or annually, increases the risk of undetected deterioration in performance that could impact patient outcomes and diagnostic accuracy. Thus, weekly uniformity checks are the recommended standard for ensuring high-quality PET imaging.