Department of Nuclear Medicine
PET-CT
The Department has the latest version of PET-CT scan Discovery IQ, for accurate staging and diagnosis of cancer. Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography (PET-CT) is a Nuclear Medicine technique which combines, in the single gantry, a PET scanner and an X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) scanner, to acquire sequential images from both devices in the same session, which are combined into a single superimposed image.
PET-CT is done for the following indications
Detection and staging of diseases
Early evaluation of response and differentiation between responder & non-responder.
Radiotherapy-planning
Effectiveness of treatment
Recurrence of Disease
Prognosis of disease
Dual Headed Gamma Camera
The department has recently installed a SPECT (Dual Headed Gamma Camera ) scanner with an aim to diagnose abnormalities in various organs and tissues using special radiopharmaceuticals. In cardiology, it examines myocardial perfusion, in neurology it is used to examine blood circulation of the brain and in oncology, the exact location of tumors are achieved.
The SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) Gamma Camera system is a powerful diagnostic tool that offers a wide range of applications across various medical specialties. By utilizing radiopharmaceuticals and advanced imaging technology, this system facilitates the early detection and precise characterization of numerous medical conditions. Below are some of the key areas where the SPECT Gamma Camera system plays a crucial role:
Early Detection of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD):
SPECT imaging is widely used in cardiology for evaluating myocardial perfusion and detecting ischemic heart disease.
By visualizing blood flow to the heart muscle, SPECT scans can identify areas of reduced perfusion indicative of CAD, allowing for early intervention and risk stratification.
Hepatic Diseases:
SPECT imaging can assess liver function and detect abnormalities such as cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver metastases.
Hepatobiliary SPECT scans can evaluate bile duct obstruction, hepatic artery perfusion, and liver function, aiding in the diagnosis and management of hepatic diseases.
Renal Diseases:
SPECT renal scans provide valuable information about renal perfusion, function, and anatomy.
These scans are used to evaluate kidney function, detect renal artery stenosis, assess renal transplant viability, and diagnose conditions such as hydronephrosis and renal cysts.
Thyroid Diseases:
SPECT imaging is employed in thyroid scintigraphy to evaluate thyroid function, detect thyroid nodules, and differentiate between benign and malignant thyroid lesions.
Thyroid SPECT scans can also localize ectopic thyroid tissue and assess thyroid hormone uptake in cases of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
Orthopedic Disorders:
SPECT bone scans are utilized in orthopedics to diagnose a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including fractures, infections, osteoarthritis and bone tumors.
By detecting areas of increased bone metabolism or blood flow, SPECT imaging helps identify sites of inflammation, stress fractures and bone remodeling associated with orthopedic disorders.
Pediatric Disorders:
SPECT imaging plays a crucial role in pediatric medicine, aiding in the diagnosis and management of various childhood conditions.
Pediatric applications of SPECT include evaluating congenital heart defects, detecting bone infections, assessing growth plate injuries and diagnosing neurological disorders such as epilepsy and brain tumors.
In summary, the SPECT Gamma Camera system offers a comprehensive approach to diagnostic imaging, enabling early detection, accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment planning for a wide range of medical conditions, including coronary artery disease, hepatic diseases, renal diseases, thyroid diseases, orthopedic disorders, and pediatric disorders. Its versatility and effectiveness make it an indispensable tool in modern healthcare, enhancing patient care and improving outcomes across diverse clinical settings.
