Use of SPECT/CT in Scintigraphic Imaging Methods

This study aims to acquire images of a human body phantom in two separate gantries (SPECT and CT), perform fusion of these images in a computer environment, determine the necessary criteria for this process, and analyze the clinical validity of the fusion process. To quantify potential fusion errors in imaging for patients with movement restrictions, a unique phantom imaging setup was planned for this study. The data from the six different CT images and the single SPECT image taken at 0 degrees were uploaded to the DICOM system within the PMOD software program. The fusion process was then performed. It was observed that the fusion images exhibited deviations depending on the orientation angles, and these deviations increased proportionally with the angle. The post-processing fusion of SPECT and CT images from separate gantries using a computer-based fusion program has some disadvantages. Patients must move to another department for CT imaging after undergoing SPECT, which can result in misalignment due to body movement. To correct these errors, the use of external markers becomes necessary. Another disadvantage is radiation safety concerns during patient transfers between imaging units due to the presence of radioactive material in the patient’s body.