Name of the Procedure:

Liver Imaging (SPECT)

• Common Names: Liver SPECT, Hepatic SPECT
• Technical Terms: Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography of the Liver

Summary

Liver Imaging (SPECT) is a non-invasive diagnostic test that produces detailed three-dimensional images of the liver. It involves the use of a small amount of radioactive material and a special camera to capture the images. The procedure helps visualize the liver's structure and function.

Purpose

Liver SPECT is used to diagnose various liver conditions, including tumors, infections, and abnormalities in blood flow. The goal is to identify issues that might not be detectable with other imaging techniques and to provide detailed information for treatment planning.

Indications

• Unexplained liver pain or discomfort
• Abnormal liver function tests
• Detection of liver tumors or metastases
• Evaluation of cirrhosis or fibrosis
• Pre-surgical planning

Preparation

• Patients may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Certain medications may need to be adjusted or stopped temporarily.
• A recent blood test or liver function test may be required for baseline assessment.

Procedure Description

1. The patient receives an injection of a radioactive tracer into a vein.
2. The patient waits for approximately 20-30 minutes to allow the tracer to accumulate in the liver.
3. The patient lies on an examination table while a SPECT camera rotates around the body, capturing images from multiple angles.
4. The data is processed to create detailed 3D images of the liver.

The procedure is painless and typically does not require sedation.

Duration

The entire process, including preparation and imaging, usually takes about 1-2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital's nuclear medicine department or an outpatient imaging clinic.

Personnel

• Nuclear Medicine Technologist
• Radiologist (to interpret the images)
• Medical Assistant (if needed)

Risks and Complications

• Low risk of allergic reactions to the radioactive tracer
• Minimal exposure to radiation
• Rare chance of injection site infection or bruising

Benefits

Liver SPECT provides detailed images and functional information that can lead to accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning, often within a few days of the procedure.

Recovery

• No specific recovery time; patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
• Drinking plenty of fluids to help flush out the radioactive tracer is recommended.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results.

Alternatives

• Ultrasound: Less detailed, more accessible.
• CT Scan: Higher radiation dose, more detail on structure but less on function.
• MRI: High detail on both structure and function, more expensive.

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel a minor pinch during the tracer injection.
• Lying still during imaging might be slightly uncomfortable.
• There should be no pain during the imaging itself.
• After the procedure, patients generally feel normal and can continue with daily activities.