Critical review of partial volume correction methods in PET and SPECT imaging: benefits, pitfalls, challenges, and future outlook

Mohammad Saber Azimi, Arman Rahmim, Hossein Arabi, Amirhossein Sanaat, Navid Zeraatkar, Yassine Bouchareb, Chi Liu, Abass Alavi, Michael King, Ronald Boellaard, Habib Zaidi

Abstract: Partial volume effects (PVE) remain a major challenge in quantitative single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, often compromising both accuracy and reproducibility. While numerous Partial Volume Correction (PVC) methods have been proposed, their clinical translation is still limited. This review provides a clinically oriented evaluation of PVC methods with a particular focus on state-of-the-art applications in neurology, cardiovascular imaging, oncology, and radiopharmaceutical therapy dosimetry, highlighting where these techniques offer the greatest added value. In addition, we outline which PVC techniques have the potential to be used in clinical practice and which remain primarily suited for research purposes, along with their suitability in each of the above-mentioned clinical domains. Finally, this review addresses the central question of whether PVC is essential in clinical practice or whether its impact is context dependent.

External IDs:doi:10.1007/s00259-025-07612-5