Single-photon-emission computed tomography(SPECT)

Definition

Single-photon-emission computed tomography (SPECT) is a nuclear imaging technique that provides 3D images of functional processes in the body. It uses gamma rays and a rotating camera system to capture detailed images of internal organs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. SPECT utilizes gamma-emitting radioisotopes, often technetium-99m, which are injected into the patient’s bloodstream.
2. The rotating gamma camera captures multiple 2D images from various angles, which are then reconstructed into a 3D image using computer algorithms.
3. SPECT is commonly used in cardiology to evaluate blood flow to the heart and in neurology to assess brain disorders.
4. The spatial resolution of SPECT is lower than that of PET (Positron Emission Tomography), but it is more widely available and less expensive.
5. Radiotracers used in SPECT have relatively longer half-lives compared to those used in PET, facilitating longer imaging sessions.

Review Questions

• What type of radiation does SPECT use to create images?
• How does SPECT differ from PET in terms of spatial resolution and cost?
• In what medical fields is SPECT most commonly utilized?

Related terms

Gamma Camera: A device used in nuclear medicine imaging to detect gamma radiation emitted by radioisotopes within the body.

Technetium-99m: A commonly used radioisotope in SPECT imaging due to its ideal half-life and gamma emission properties.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET): An imaging technique similar to SPECT but uses positron-emitting radiotracers for higher resolution images.