Discuss uses for CT with SPECT/PET + +&- of these hybrid systems(9/9)

Gamma camera PET

- retain the ability to perform planar imaging
- requires switching on and off of the co-incidence circuitry

An alternative to expensive dedicate PET units

Pro –
Cheaper
Spatial res is maintained in PET

Con
In PET:
Poor count rate versus dedicated PET –> more noise
Higher scatter -> less contrast
Requires thick collimators -> collimator artefact
b/c use different pharmaceutical (PET one) -> higher energy photons (512keV)

Worse spatial resolution in SPECT mode (thicker crystal)

PET/CT

Contain separate PET and XRCT systems within a single gantry with the patient
bed passing through both. Obtain 1 set of data then the other.

Can provide anatomical detail and allow attenuation correction

- Usually for staging
Can do low dose scout CT or diagnostic high dose CT

SPECT/CT

Is a gantry that contains 2 scintillation camera heads (for SPECT or PET if placed
in 180 degree with coincidence imaging on) and a CT.

Alows anatomic localization and attenuation correction as well.