What is the primary function of a Pulse Height Analyzer in nuclear medicine?

The primary function of a Pulse Height Analyzer in nuclear medicine is to filter out unwanted radiation. This device is essential for optimizing the detection of gamma rays emitted from radioactive isotopes. It distinguishes between the useful photons that contain diagnostic information and the background radiation or scattered events that do not contribute relevant data. By setting specific energy levels, the Pulse Height Analyzer allows the system to accept only those signals that fall within the designated energy window, effectively removing noise and enhancing the quality of the data collected. This function is crucial for accurate image reconstruction and ensuring that the diagnostic information is both reliable and informative.