SPECT Instrumentation

Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) is a non-invasive method of visualizing cardiac perfusion and function. SPECT images are usually acquired with an Anger gamma camera, although newer cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) cameras are now replacing the older technology. This chapter highlights the essential components of the Anger camera and its operation as well as newer advancements. The chapter also describes the common approaches to acquire and process planar (two-dimensional) and tomographic (three-dimensional) images. The discussion on image reconstruction includes common approaches for correcting attenuation, scatter, collimator effects and patient motion. The applications of blood-pool imaging and myocardial perfusion imaging are briefly highlighted. Finally, the chapter concludes with a description of the quality assurance tests and procedures used to ensure accurate camera performance.