BACKGROUND: Quality control (QC) is essential for ensuring the diagnostic reliability of Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) systems. However, the reliance on third-party software for analyzing QC metrics introduces a potential source of variability that is not yet standardized. Variability in QC results due to the use of different image analysis software may compromise both equipment evaluation and interinstitutional comparability. PURPOSE: This technical note assessed the variability in QC test results generated by different SPECT image analysis software packages to underscore the need for improved standardization. METHODS: ) reported. RESULTS: > 0.14). Significant differences (p < 0.05) in key indicators were also observed across analyses for UFOV/CFOV fields of view and X/Y directions. Pairwise comparisons indicated that the primary differences existed between Softwares B, D, and E compared to the other packages. CONCLUSION: We found significant disparities between software packages in both file reading capability and the analysis of key QC performance indicators. These differences directly impact the accuracy of equipment performance evaluations and interinstitutional comparability, potentially leading to divergent conclusions regarding the same device's compliance status.
Jiawu et al. (Fri,) studied this question.