Development of 3D-Printed Heterogeneous Tumour Phantom for Quantitative Analysis in PET/CT Imaging

Tumours are heterogenous growths that consists of different types cells with varying genetic expressions. The complex structure the tumour makes cancer treatment difficult due to heterogeneity each react differently radiation treatment. Therefore, effective requires proper characterization heterogeneity, which is be assessed by most current medical imaging technologies. purpose this study was develop a 3D printed phantom multiple compartments simulate and assess accuracy using Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) imaging. designed modelled SolidWorks then constructed fused deposition modelling (FDM) method printing polylactide (PLA) filament as material. Multiple layer waterproof coating applied carefully tested for any leakage prior study. Each filled activity radiopharmaceutical ( 18 F-FDG). embedded in water bath soft tissue scanned under PET/CT scanner standard clinical protocol. volume radioactivity compartment were measured software Standardized Uptake Values (SUVs). Results showed able delineate quantify within phantom, albeit some difficulties detecting below 100 μCi. Further research required improve design allow easier injection radioactive solution well altering dimensions internal better characterize actual parameters.