Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography

Description
1. SPECT is a widely available noninvasive functional imaging technique that evaluates cerebral
vascular supply. A radioactive tracer is administered by inhalation or injection into the
bloodstream; the tracer then decays to emit only a single photon. It uses a rotating camera to
track the single photons emitted from radioactive decay and collects information from multiple
views. Evaluation of the radioactive tracers creates images that show cerebral blood flow in
various regions of the brain.
2. The radioactive tracer compounds used are commercially prepared and do not require the
specialized equipment used in PET scanning.
3. SPECT is typically used to evaluate cerebral blood flow in patients with ischemic stroke,
subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), migraine, dementia (including Alzheimer’s disease), epilepsy,
and other degenerative diseases.
4. Advantages of SPECT: Can perform hemodynamic, chemical, and functional imaging; widely
available. 5. Disadvantages of SPECT: Ionizing radiation, provides only relative measurements.

Nursing and Patient Care Considerations

1. Inform patient that this is a noninvasive procedure that should cause minimal discomfort.
2. Tell patient that results of the scan are typically available for interpretation by a specialist
immediately after the procedure

Dynamic Volume Computed Tomography

Description
1. This scanning technique can include entire organs, such as the heart or brain, in a single
rotation and enables dynamic processes, such as blood volume and time to peak, to be
observed.
2. The scanning process takes less time and requires a smaller dose of iodinated contrast and
less radiation than conventional CT, making it an ideal diagnostic test in emergency situations
(heart attack or stroke) or for those who cannot tolerate large doses of iodine contrast (renal
disease).
Nursing and Patient Care Considerations
1. The general considerations for conventional CT are the same.
2. Inform the patient about lying flat on the table while the tube revolves around the area to
be scanned.
3. If contrast will be used, the patient will most likely have an IV catheter placed for the
injection of dye. A sensation of warmth or metallic taste in the mouth may be experienced after
the dye injection.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography/

Venography of the Brain

1. Magnetic resonance angiography/venography (MRA/MRV) is a 3-D phase contrast
technique. The test focuses on high signal or blood flow while suppressing background
nonactive tissue.
2. Two flow-opposing acquisitions are obtained and the computer subtracts the background
signal to construct the cerebral vasculature.
3. Advantages of MRA/MRV: No exposure to radiation.
4. Disadvantages of MRA/MRV: Less sensitivity than CT angiography (sensitivity increases in
aneurysms larger than 5 mm).
Nursing and Patient Care Considerations
1. Instruct patient as for MRI. Full cooperation of the patient is vital for head motion and task
performance reasons. Global cognitive impairment, aphasia, neglect, substantial sensory
disturbances, and severe depression are usually exclusion criteria. The performance of motor
tasks during imaging should be monitored.
2. Medications that may interfere with performance of tasks during the procedure should be
avoided, if possible, including benzodiazephines, sedatives, and opioids.