What is single photon emission computed tomography used for?
A single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) scan lets your doctor analyze the function of some of your internal organs. A SPECT scan is a type of nuclear imaging test, which means it uses a radioactive substance and a special camera to create 3-D pictures.
What is the acquisition time of a single photon emission computed tomography spect system?
CT images can be acquired on the order of seconds to a few minutes depending on the X-ray tube strength, while radionuclide-TCT may require 4 to 10 minutes.
Is single photon emission computed tomography invasive?
Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) is a non-invasive procedure that can accurately identify areas of abnormal myocardial perfusion, determine the functional capacity of your heart muscle, and separate viable (living) from non-viable (irreversibly damaged) tissue.
How does a spect camera work?
How does SPECT imaging work? SPECT scans use a radioactive material called a tracer. The tracer is injected intravenously and mixes with your blood. As your blood moves through your body, it’s “taken up” or absorbed by your living heart muscle.
What is a PET scan used for?
The PET scan uses a radioactive drug (tracer) to show both normal and abnormal metabolic activity. A PET scan can often detect the abnormal metabolism of the tracer in diseases before the disease shows up on other imaging tests, such as computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
How is SPECT used?
A single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan is an imaging test that shows how blood flows to tissues and organs. It may be used to help diagnose seizures, stroke, stress fractures, infections, and tumors in the spine.
When is SPECT used?
A SPECT scan is often used to evaluate brain, head, and neck problems; to look at blood flow to the heart; to examine bones; and to diagnose problems in other organs such as the gall bladder, liver, spleen, and kidneys.
When do you use SPECT and PET?
PET scans also use radiopharmaceuticals to create three-dimensional images. The main difference between SPECT and PET scans is the type of radiotracers used. While SPECT scans measure gamma rays, the decay of the radiotracers used with PET scans produce small particles called positrons.
How much radiation is in a SPECT scan?
Conclusion: Total patient exposure from clinical SPECT/CT is 7mSv on average. Individual dose levels vary with the clinical indication and on-site protocol parameters.
What is the difference between a CT scan and a PET scan?
A CT scan shows detailed pictures of the organs and tissues inside your body. A PET scan can find abnormal activity and it can be more sensitive than other imaging tests. It may also show changes to your body sooner. Doctors use PET-CT scans to provide more information about the cancer.