Radiopharmaceutical localization of tumor, inflammatory process or distribution of radiopharmaceutical agent(s) (includes vascular flow and blood pool imaging, when performed); tomographic (SPECT), single area (eg, head, neck, chest, pelvis), single day i
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure
Common name(s): SPECT Scan Technical or medical terms: Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT)
Summary
A SPECT Scan is a type of nuclear imaging test that uses a radiopharmaceutical agent to create 3D images of how blood flows to tissues and organs. It's commonly used to detect tumors, inflammation, or how a specific radiopharmaceutical agent spreads in the body.
Purpose
SPECT scans are primarily used to identify and locate tumors, assess the spread of inflammatory conditions, or determine the distribution of radiopharmaceutical agents. The goals include obtaining detailed images that assist in diagnosing and managing medical conditions.
Indications
- Suspicion of cancer or tumors
- Inflammatory or infectious processes in various parts of the body
- Unexplained pain or swelling
- Assessment of blood flow abnormalities
- Follow-up on treated conditions to evaluate response
Preparation
- Fasting for a specified period before the procedure might be required.
- Certain medications may need to be paused or adjusted.
- A preliminary blood test may be required to check kidney function.
- The patient might need to wear loose, comfortable clothing and remove metal objects.
Procedure Description
- Injection: A radiopharmaceutical agent is injected into a vein.
- Circulation: The agent circulates through the bloodstream and accumulates in the targeted area.
- Imaging: The patient lies down on a table while the SPECT camera rotates around them, capturing images from multiple angles.
- Reconstruction: A computer processes these images to create detailed 3D pictures.
Tools: SPECT camera, radiopharmaceutical agent. Anesthesia: Generally not required, sometimes mild sedation for very anxious patients.
Duration
Typically takes between 1 to 3 hours, including preparation and imaging.
Setting
Performed in a hospital's nuclear medicine department or an outpatient imaging center.
Personnel
- Nuclear medicine physician
- Radiologic technologist
- Sometimes a nurse for patient preparation
Risks and Complications
- Minor risk of allergic reaction to the radiopharmaceutical agent
- Slight discomfort or bruising at the injection site
- Rare risk of radiation exposure complications
Benefits
- Highly detailed and accurate images for diagnosis
- Helps in early detection and intervention of serious conditions
- Non-invasive with a quick recovery time
Recovery
- Most patients can go home immediately after the procedure.
- Drink plenty of fluids to flush out the radiopharmaceutical agent.
- Resume normal activities almost immediately unless advised otherwise.
Alternatives
- CT Scan: Offers detailed images but uses X-rays.
- MRI: Provides detailed soft tissue images without radiation but may not show functional information as well.
- PET Scan: Similar to SPECT but uses different tracers and can be more sensitive.
Patient Experience
During the procedure, patients may feel a slight pinch from the injection and will be asked to lie still while images are taken. After the procedure, there may be minimal discomfort. Drinking water is encouraged to help clear the radiopharmaceutical agent from the body. Any discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.