Name of the Procedure:

Radiopharmaceutical Localization of Tumor, Inflammatory Process, or Distribution of Radiopharmaceutical Agent(s) (SPECT/CT)

Summary

This advanced imaging procedure combines Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) with Computed Tomography (CT) to accurately locate tumors, assess inflammatory processes, or evaluate the distribution of radiopharmaceutical agents within the body.

Purpose

This procedure is used to diagnose and evaluate cancerous tumors, identify areas of infection or inflammation, and track the distribution of specific radiopharmaceuticals within the body. The goal is to provide precise imaging that aids in the diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of various medical conditions.

Indications

• Suspected or known cancerous tumors
• Unexplained inflammation or infection
• Need to evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals
• Patient displaying symptoms such as unexplained pain, swelling, or masses
• Monitoring response to cancer treatments

Preparation

• Patients may be required to fast for several hours prior to the procedure.
• Certain medications might need to be adjusted or paused.
• Diagnostic tests such as blood work may be performed beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. A small amount of radiopharmaceutical agent is injected into the patient’s bloodstream.
2. The patient lies down on a table, and the SPECT/CT scanner is positioned around them.
3. The scanner simultaneously captures images using SPECT to show the metabolic activity and CT to provide anatomical detail.
4. The patient must remain still while the images are being taken, which may take 30-60 minutes.
5. The images are then analyzed by a radiologist and/or nuclear medicine specialist.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, including preparation and imaging time.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a hospital’s radiology or nuclear medicine department, or a specialized outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Nuclear medicine technologist
• Radiologist or nuclear medicine physician
• Nurses
• Radiology technician

Risks and Complications

• Mild allergic reactions to the radiopharmaceutical
• Minor discomfort at the injection site
• Exposure to a small amount of radiation
• Rarely, more severe allergic reactions or complications

Benefits

• Provides detailed and accurate imaging for better disease diagnosis and treatment planning
• Non-invasive with minimal discomfort
• Helps in monitoring the effectiveness of treatments more effectively

Recovery

• Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Staying hydrated helps flush the radiopharmaceutical from the body.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to review the imaging results with the physician.

Alternatives

• Traditional CT or MRI scans, though these may not provide the same level of metabolic information.
• PET/CT scans, which also combine metabolic and anatomical imaging but use different radiopharmaceuticals.
• Ultrasound, which is less detailed for certain internal structures.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel a brief sting or pinch from the injection.
• Remaining still during imaging might be uncomfortable but is necessary for accuracy.
• Efforts are made to ensure patient comfort, and pain management is rarely required since the procedure is minimally invasive.