Robustness of anatomically guided pixel-by-pixel algorithms for partial volume effect correction in positron emission tomography

Several algorithms have been proposed to improve positron emission tomograp hy quantification by combining anatomical and functional information in a p ixel-by-pixel correction scheme. The precision of these methods when applie d to real data depends on the precision of the manifold correction steps, s uch as full-width half-maximum modeling, magnetic resonance imaging-positro n emission tomography registration, tissue segmentation, or background acti vity estimation. A good understanding of the influence of these parameters thus is critical to the effective use of the algorithms. In the current art icle, the authors present a monodimensional model that allows a simple theo retical and experimental evaluation of correction imprecision. The authors then assess correction robustness in three dimensions with computer simulat ions, and evaluate the validity of regional SD as a correction performance criterion.