Objective: In this study we introduce Spatiotemporal Emission Reconstruction Prompt Gamma Timing (SER-PGT), a new method to directly reconstruct the prompt photon emission in the space and time domains inside the patient in proton therapy. Approach: SER-PGT is based on the numerical optimisation of a multidimensional Likelihood function, followed by a post-processing of the results. The current approach relies on a specific implementation of the Maximum-Likelihood Expectation Maximisation algorithm. The robustness of the method is guaranteed by the complete absence of any information about the target composition in the algorithm. Main Results: Accurate Monte Carlo simulations indicate a range resolution of about 0.5 cm (standard deviation) when considering 107 primary protons impinging on an homogeneous phantom. Preliminary results on an anthropomorphic phantom are also reported. Significance: By showing the feasibility for the reconstruction of the primary particle range using PET detectors, this study provides significant basis for the development of an hybrid in-beam PET and prompt photon device.
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