Professional Documents
Culture Documents
SUMMARY
Nuclear medicine is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnostic,
therapeutic, and research applications of radioactive compounds known as
radiopharmaceuticals. Nuclear medicine studies, unlike radiologic tests, which assess
the existence of disease based on structural appearance, discover the cause of a
medical condition based on organ or tissue function. The radioactive material or traces
are often injected, swallowed, or inhaled into the body. A professionally trained
professional performs nuclear medicine. A nuclear medicine physician, a nuclear
medicine technologist, a physicist, a pharmacist, or a particularly trained technologist
make up this group.
The history of nuclear medicine started with George de Hevesy (1923) the “father
of nuclear medicine”. He is a radiochemist that helps in the development of radioactive
tracers. Follower by Ernest Lawrence (1931), it made de Hevesy expand his studies to
a broader spectrum of biologic processes by using phosphorus-32, sodium-22, and
other cyclotron-produced radioactive tracers. In 1946 Enrico Fermi developed the
nuclear reactor, radioactive elements began to be produced in nuclear reactors. This
nuclear reactor greatly extended the ability of the cyclotron to produce radioactive
tracers. With the addition of Benidict Cassen (1950) and Hal anger (1958), they
developed the first rectilinear scanner and gamma camera respectively.
Roy Edwards and David Kuhl in 1960 achieve the greatest advancement in the
field of nuclear medicine when they made a nuclear medicine imaging with the
development of a crude single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)
camera known as the MARK IV with this, it was now possible to create a three-
dimensional of organ function instead of two-dimensional images. More so, basic
nuclear physics includes the atom which is composed of varying numbers of protons
and neutrons, and the orbiting electrons. Which revolve around the nucleus in discrete
energy levels. Protons have a positive electric charge, electrons have a negative
charge, and neutrons are electrically neutral. Radionuclides are atoms that emit
radiation during radioactive decay in the form of alpha particles (α), beta particles (β)),
or gamma rays (γ). Most radionuclides reach the ground state by a variety of decay
processes, including alpha, beta, or positron emission and electron capture, among
others. The sort of particles or gamma rays emitted in the decay is determined by these
approaches.
Hence, SPECT or Single-photon emission computed tomography produces
images similar to those obtained by CT or MRI in that a computer creates thin slices
through a particular organ. Tomographic images can be created using one to three
gamma detectors. Tomographic systems are designed to allow detector heads to rotate
up to 360 degrees around a patient's body to collect "projection" image data, which is
then reconstructed by a computer in a variety of formats, including transaxial, sagittal,
coronal, planar, and three-dimensional representations. In addition, PET or Positron
emission tomography imaging uses positron emissions from particular radionuclides to
produce detailed functional images within the body. Positron radiopharmaceuticals have
SUMMARY
Nuclear Medicine involves the safe use of unsealed radioactive nuclides for the
diagnosis and treatment of diseases. There are two areas in nuclear medicine and
these are the supervised and controlled areas. A supervised area is a place where there
is no radiation. This includes the offices like the reception area, where patients are
interviewed by the clerk; Consultation area, where the doctor consults their patients
after the procedure; and the pantry where most of the staff eat or spend their breaks.
Furthermore, the other area of nuclear medicine is the controlled area; this is the area
where PPE and TLD are used. It includes the radioimmunoassay room, this is where
blood tests are done, usually used to measure the concentrations of substances for
example TSH and NT4 by the use of antibodies; Hot labs is where the radioactive
materials are kept; Thyroid Uptake Room is an area where the thyroid of the patient is
measured to know if they have hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. The Treadmill area
is also included in the controlled area. Bone Densitometer Room is an area where they
are used to measure the bone mineral densitometer of the patient. This area is for the
patients who are prone to osteoporosis which are the old aged persons. On the other
hand, the nuclear medicine team consists of nuclear medicine physicians, medical
technologists, radiologic technologists, medical physicists, radiochemists, and a clerk.
During the Focused Group Discussion, our clinical instructor did a review of the
recorded video. She also discussed the HIDA scan or the hepatobiliary scan for
advance knowledge. It captures images of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and small
intestine to aid in the diagnosis of medical disorders affecting those organs. A bone
scan is a nuclear imaging test that can be used to detect and follow a variety of bone
illnesses, including fractures, arthritis, and Paget's disease. A renal glomerular filtration
rate (GFR) scan uses a radioactive tracer to show the function and blood flow of your
kidneys
For the cardiac studies, cardiac perfusion imaging, also called stress/rest cardiac
imaging is performed. The patient is given a cardiac radiopharmaceutical by injection
into an arm vein. The radiopharmaceutical is extracted from the blood pool into the
heart muscle within 2 minutes; SPECT images are then acquired. The patient is given a
second injection of the radiopharmaceutical during the stress portion of the test.
Stressing the heart is accomplished by having the patient run on a treadmill or by one of
a variety of different pharmacologic stressing agents and being given the
radiopharmaceutical injection a second time through an intravenous line. The
radiopharmaceutical injection is given at maximum cardiac stress as evaluated by
electrocardiogram (ECG) under the direction of a physician, nurse practitioner, or
physician’s assistant trained in these examinations. SPECT images are acquired after
each portion of the test, stress and rest, and compared with each other during reading
to determine infarction from ischemia.
Lung scans look at both the ventilation, or air flow, and perfusion, or blood flow,
of the lungs most commonly to identify a pulmonary embolism. The ventilation scan is
usually performed first followed by the perfusion scan. Both sets of images use
radiopharmaceuticals tagged to Tc 99m, so the number of counts from the perfusion
images must be tripled to overshadow the counts from the ventilation images. Thyroid
therapy with I-131 can be given to reduce the function of the thyroid. Hyperthyroidism
(overactive thyroid) results in a higher uptake reading, which may indicate Graves’
disease (toxic multiple nodular goiter, also known as Plummer’s disease) while a lower
thyroid reading indicates hypothyroidism (thyroid with reduced activity); the uptake can
be so low the thyroid cannot be visualized during imaging.
PET is a valuable tool for assessing the metabolism of tumors. PET scans for
this application generally are done to determine the initial sites of cancers and to see
whether cancer has spread to other areas of the body. PET may be used for the initial
diagnosis, for staging of a malignancy, and as a follow-up technique for determining
response to treatment. An increase in glycolysis (increased use of sugar by the cells) in
a specific organ or region of the body is an indicator of malignancy.
PET can be used to assess how coronary artery disease affects the normal
functioning of the heart. A PET perfusion tracer such as 13N-ammonia or rubidium
chloride Rb 82 is used to investigate whether certain areas of the heart are receiving
insufficient blood flow. Many newer PET/CT scanners are equipped with 64 slices,
which can permit CT angiography or calcium scoring to be done at the same time as
PET perfusion scanning.
PET can be used to investigate the location of seizure sites in epileptic patients
who are unresponsive to drug therapy; this is accomplished by measuring changes in
how the brain uses the sugar tracer (FDG) in the affected areas. PET can detect seizure
sites within the brain, regardless of whether or not a patient is experiencing a seizure at
PET brain mapping techniques are able to minimize the risk of injury to a key
motor or sensory region of the brain by allowing evaluation of patients before surgery so
that the locations of these vital areas can be characterized. PET can be used to
characterize central nervous system tumors in the same way that it is used for imaging
tumors elsewhere in the body. Actively growing brain tumors concentrate FDG. In
addition to FDG, another tracer, 11C-methionine, can be used to assess amino acid
metabolism. This agent is much more sensitive to the presence of even low-grade
tumors. By combining 11C-methionine scanning with FDG, it is possible to detect the
presence of a tumor and to determine how aggressive it is. PET scanning is capable of
evaluating and characterizing various types of dementias such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Using FDG, PET can measure glucose metabolism in the brain. PET can help to
confirm the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and to monitor the effects of treatment.
GLOSSARY
Alpha particle: Helium nucleus that consists of two protons and two neutrons.
Beta particle: Ionizing radiation with characteristics of an electron emitted from the
nucleus of a radioactive atom.
Collimator: Device used to confine the elements of a beam within an assigned solid
angle.
Cyclotron: Device for accelerating charged particles in a spiral fashion to high energies
via an alternating electrical field.
Electron capture: Method of radioactive decay that involves the capture of an orbital
electron by its nucleus.
In vivo: Inside of the patient; describes a process or reaction that occurs within the
patient.
Ion: Atom or chemical radical that bears an electrical charge that is either positive or
negative.
Isotope: Nuclides of the same element that have different atomic mass (neutrons) but
the same atomic number (protons).
Pharmaceutical: Any chemical substance intended for use in the medical diagnosis,
cure, treatment, or prevention of disease.
SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography): Imaging system that uses
one to three gamma detectors to produce tomographic images of an organ or structure.
TOPIC: SUMMARY
Thyroid cancer is classified into two types: papillary cancer, which is the most
prevalent and appears as a solid mass, and follicular cancer, which is more aggressive.
The patient would only be admitted for one day for a low-dose diagnostic procedure and
then be allowed to return home after obtaining a specific amount of radiation safety
teaching. Thyroid scans using 99m Tc are used in SPECT CT screening techniques to
In RAI therapy low dose treatment, after the patient is admitted for a day, the
next day the patient may be discharged provided with radiation safety instructions. The
screening procedures are the following: for SPECT/CT with t99m is thyroid scan, to
determine the severity of hyperthyroidism, for radioimmunoassay (RIA) is thyrotropin
(TSH), free thyroxine (FT4) but some doctors order anti-TPO. In RAI therapy high dose
treatment, 15 mCi to 200 mCi is used to treat thyroid cancer and metastatic thyroid
cancer. The patient is admitted for 3 days, for visiting relatives, the time is limited for
visiting hours and minors are not allowed. Pregnant are not allowed inside the isolation
room. The patient can be discharged when radiation levels are 25 uSv per hr at 1 meter,
which will be monitored by a radtech, and the patient will have a post RAI imaging after
discharge and after seven days. Radiation safety instructions will be given prior to
discharge and to be observed for one month.
The thyroid scan is used to evaluate the amount of the residual thyroid to be
ablated and to estimate the dose to be given after thyroidectomy. After radioactive
iodine treatment, a post-radioactive iodine therapy scan is performed to determine what
was treated and whether there is any sign of metastatic thyroid cancer. After 6 months
of RAI therapy, a total body scan is performed to see if the thyroid cancer has returned.
It's used to see if there are any leftover working thyroid tissues following a
thyroidectomy, as well as to find out if there are any functioning thyroid cancers,
metastases, or recurrences after radioactive I-131 ablation therapy.
Furthermore, the patient must stay in a separate room with a separate bathroom, the
patient must not be cuddled, kissed, and relatives must keep a one meter distance from
the patient, when using the toilet flush twice and if possible use disposable utensils, the
patient must not share utensils and must not cook or prepare food, and the patient can
visit the Nuclear Mecca.
TOPIC: SUMMARY
The topic that was discussed was all about the Elution and Reconstitution of
Radiopharmaceuticals. This process is known as ‘eluting the generator’ and the
resultant eluate is used to compound the radiopharmaceuticals. In making technetium
using a generator, first, we need to wear proper PPE, TLD (Thermoluminescent
detector, thyroid shield, and lead gown- to protect from radiation exposure. Only
evacuated vials and salines are to be used for elution.
Furthermore, to avoid confusion with other radioactive elements, always
remember that Molybdenum 99m is the mother chemical of Technetium. After that, fill
the outlet with saline and place the protected vial on the other. Following that, the liquid
in the vial should be sucked by the machine, and the outcome is technetium (while
waiting for 5-10 mins). Finally, using a dosage calibrator, measure the technetium yield
to determine the precise yield.
TOPIC: SUMMARY
The topic that was discussed was all about the Radioactivity, Radionuclides and
Radiopharmaceuticals. It started with the basic isotope notation in which explains that
atom is the collection of protons, neutrons and electrons. The protons and neutrons are
On the other hand, Half-life usually refers to the physical half-life, which is the amount of
time necessary for a radionuclide to be reduced to half of its existing activity. The
physical half-life (Tp) is equal to 0.693/λ, where λ is the decay constant. Thus, λ and the
physical half-life have characteristic values for each radioactive nuclide. In evaluating
the choice of a radionuclide to be used in the nuclear medicine laboratory, the following
characteristics are desirable first is Minimum of particulate emission, Primary photon
energy between 50 and 500 keV, Physical half-life greater than the time required to
prepare material for injection, Effective half-life longer than the examination time,
Suitable chemical form and reactivity, Low toxicity and Stability or near-stability of the
product. Also, the different types of radiopharmaceuticals used in nuclear medicine was
discussed in which;
Carbon-11 Acetate
Prostate
Nitrogen-13 Ammonia
Cardiac perfusion
Gallium-67 Citrate
Infection, tumor
Krypton-81m Gas
Pulmonary ventilation
Rubidium-82 Chloride
Myocardial perfusion
ventilation
hepatic hemangioma
Mebrofenin Biliary
diverticulum, testicular.
TERMINOLOGIES
Alpha-particle emission - an alpha (α) particle, consisting of two protons and two
neutrons, is released from the nucleus, with a resulting decrease in the atomic mass
number (A) by four and reduction of both Z and N by two.
Electron capture - occurs in a neutron-deficient nuclide when one of the inner orbital
electrons is captured by a proton in the nucleus, forming a neutron and a neutrino.
Isomeric transition - Any process in which energy is given off as gamma rays and in
which the numbers of protons and neutrons are not change.
The topic that was discussed in the two minutes video is all about how radiologic
technologists perform the bone scan procedure. A bone scan is an imaging technology
that creates three-dimensional images of the bones by using radioactive materials. A
bone skin uses a technique called single photon emission computed tomography, or
SPECT, which uses a radioactive substance and a special camera to produce 3d
images of the organs and other internal structures. Unlike an x-ray, which shows what
internal structures look like, spec shows how these structures work, for example.
Before the procedure begins, there is no specific patient preparations but only to
inform the physician during the appointment if you are pregnant or suspected to be as
well as a breastfeeding mom. There are two parts the nuclear medicine bone scans the
injection and the scan in the first part you will receive an injection of a small amount of
radioactive material into a vein, you will be asked to return to the imaging area in about
two hours. for the second part of your scan the radioactive materials need time to be
absorbed by the bones during the two-hour wait you may eat whatever your doctor has
allowed the radioactive material is eliminated from your body through urine it is
important that you drink lots of fluid to stay hydrated.
During the scan, the radiologic technologist first performs a Topogram or a scout
scan which serve as the baseline of the procedure. This is a two-dimensional X-ray
image acquired using a CT scanner. The topogram is routinely used in clinical CT
scanning only to define the scan range of the subsequent CT scan.
TERMINOLOGIES
The topic that was discussed in video was the continuation of the topic bone
scan. It also clarifies the process of doing a bone scan procedure. In which, before the
procedure begins, there is no specific patient preparations but only to inform the
physician during the appointment if you are pregnant or suspected to be as well as a
breastfeeding mom. There are two parts the nuclear medicine bone scans the injection
and the scan in the first part you will receive an injection of a small amount of
radioactive material into a vein, you will be asked to return to the imaging area in about
two hours. for the second part of your scan the radioactive materials need time to be
absorbed by the bones during the two-hour wait you may eat whatever your doctor has
allowed the radioactive material is eliminated from your body through urine it is
important that you drink lots of fluid to stay hydrated.
During the scan, the radiologic technologist first performs a Topogram or a scout
scan which serve as the baseline of the procedure. This is a two-dimensional X-ray
image acquired using a CT scanner. The topogram is routinely used in clinical CT
scanning only to define the scan range of the subsequent CT scan.
Furthermore, bone scan has also its advantages and disadvantages. The main
advantage of a bone scan is that it is a whole-body evaluation in one test in one
radiation exposure. It is also safer since it only uses low radiation exposure by having a
sensitive evaluation. While the disadvantages of this procedure are that it needs
radiopharmaceuticals and gamma camera that is not widely available in some areas, it
has also low specificity and it is more expensive compared to the other procedures.
On the other hand, it is also discussed in the video that the most widely used
radiopharmaceuticals is TC-99m labeled diphosphonates. Thus, although findings on
bone scan are non-specific, its monostotic or polyostotic status and anatomical
distribution can provide important clues to the differential diagnosis.
TOPIC: SUMMARY
For today’s lecture, the video discussion was explained by the Nuclear Medicine
Technologist. The said discussion was all about the various Nuclear Imaging
Procedures that were usually done within Nuclear Medicine facilities. The first
procedure discussed was about the Bone Scan. It’s indications include bone mets,
osteomyelitis, etc. It is used with the pharmaceutical MDP with a 25 mCi dose and a
waiting time of 2-3 hours. Images are acquired either through whole body or static
acquisition. The second procedure discussed was about the Renal Scan GFR. It’s
indications include eval. of renal perfusion and function, evaluation of renal trauma, etc.
It is used with the pharmaceutical DTPA with a 15 mCi dose. Images are acquired
through dynamic acquisition.
Thirdly, the Renal Scan Tubular Function. It’s indications include diagnosis of
acute/chronic pyelonephritis, evaluation of renal cortical scanning, etc. It is used with
the pharmaceutical DMSA with a 5 mCi dose and a waiting time of 2-3 hours. Images
are acquired through static acquisition. Patients are usually pediatric. The fourth
procedure discussed was about the Parathyroid Imaging. It’s indications include
detecting and localizing parathyroid adenomas. It is used with the pharmaceutical
Sestamibi with a 25 mCi dose and a static acquisition with timeframes of after 15 mins,
30 mins and 3 hrs.
On the other hand, the fifth procedure discussed was about the Thyroid Scan. It’s
indications include evaluation of palpable nodules, diagnosis of grave’s disease, etc. It
is used with the pharmaceutical Tc-99m with a 1-3 mCi pediatric and 3-10 mCi adult
dose. Images are acquired through static acquisition. The sixth procedure discussed
was about the GI bleeding study RBC tagging. It’s indications include localization of GI
bleeding sites and non-GI bleeding sites. It is used with the pharmaceutical PYP with a
25 mCi dose and a waiting time of 2-3 hours. Images are acquired through dynamic
acquisition.
Futhermore, the ninth procedure discussed was about the Lung Perfusion. It’s
indications include diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. It is used with the pharmaceutical
MAA with a 6 mCi dose. Images are acquired through static acquisition. The tenth
procedure discussed was about the Lung Ventilation. It’s indications include diagnosis
of pulmonary embolism and evaluation of ventilation. It is used with the pharmaceutical
DTPA with a static acquisition. Lastly, Bone Densitometry was discussed. It measures
the density of bones and helps diagnose osteoporosis. It uses Dual Energy Xray
Absoptiometry.
Thus, this discussion was all about the different procedure in lined with nuclear
medicine. This won’t be possible without the nuclear medicine personnel and staff. Each
procedure offers different therapeutic and diagnostic benefits to patients.
TOPIC: SUMMARY
A video about the Radiation Therapeutic Unit was the second video we saw
today. We were first introduced to Maam Novi, the unit's leader, who then outlined the
steps for a patient's admission to the facility. To avoid nausea/vomiting during the
therapeutic procedure, fasting should be done within 2 hours. To assist the radiation
subside, patients should increase their water intake and bathe twice a day after
receiving the drug. Following that, we were shown a room with a red light indicating that
a process is in progress, as well as movable lead shields, monitoring devices, lead
robes, and a thyroid shield. The therapy room was also shown to us.
On the other hand, the next topic was the distinction between an ITU nurse and a
ward nurse. ITU nurses have a lower load than ward nurses, according to the unit's
leader, because wards often deal with a lot more cases. ITU nurses do not deal with the
same number of cases; instead, they are assigned to specific cases. The nuclear
medicine department was then shown to us. Maam Karen, a nuclear medicine
technologist, explained the difference between a nuclear medicine medical technologist
and a laboratory medical technologist. The primary difference was that in nuclear
medicine facilities everything they handle is radioactive as compared to a normal
laboratory which does a certain risk compared to that. We were also shown the other
areas such as the extraction area which is used to extract blood samples, the waiting
area for radioactive patients, the RIA room where the radiopharmaceuticals are stored
such as the MDP, DTPA, PYP, MIBI, DMSA and the TSH and FT4, the hot lab room
where the elution and reconstitution of radiotracers are done. Within the room is the
fumehood and lead block/pots/shields, with the dose calibrator used to determine the
radioactivity of the pharmaceutical.
For today’s video presentation, it mainly talks about the Tomotherapy Room.
Because the Tomotherapy Room is a limited space, only those who have been
authorized entry are permitted to utilize it. The room's labyrinth entry was created to
lower the amount of lead shielding used as well as the dose of scattered photons.
Tomotherapy is a cutting-edge method of administering radiation therapy that can be
used to treat almost any ailment. It has been used to treat both common cancers like as
breast cancer and prostate cancer, as well as unusual cancers.
On the other hand, tomotherapy has a variety of advantages in terms of effectively
regulating the radiation dose within the body, ensuring that it is only directed at the
cancer cells we want to spare and not at healthy tissue. We will take a CT scan on a
regular basis before starting the operation. This will allow us to see if the target we were
supposed to treat has moved or changed in any manner. As a result, you may rest
comfortable that if you come in for tomotherapy treatment, we will target you to the
millimeters where you were intended to be targeted. The therapy will not be more than
2, 3, or 4 millimeters off center, which may not seem like much.
Terminologies:
Tomotherapy - is a radiation therapy modality, in which the patient is scanned
across a modulated strip-beam.
Maze Entrance – a type of entrance is radiation therapy room that is capable to
minimize the use of lead shielding and in order to reduce the dose of the scattered
photons.
For today’s recorded video presentation, it has two parts; the DRMC’s Radiation
Therapy virtual room tour and the CT scan Simulation and Planning. DRMC is the
cancer center for Mindanao, the center has a lot of areas. First is the triage area, where
the patient will be interviewed for Covid-19 restrictions and what are the things needed
in order to enter the center. Also, the patients’ vital signs will be collected here. Next is
the waiting area, the cashier/billing area, receiving area; where patients are received as
well as their requirements and also where patients are interviewed by their physicians.
Lastly, the insertion area is where the insertion of the IV line to the patient will be done.
On the other hand, the machines that will be used in the radiation therapy room
is also discussed. CT scan machine is used for the simulation and imaging purposes.
Next is the brachytherapy area, it is composed of recovery room where patients stay
here for recovery after the procedure and the preparation area, where apparatus, sterile
equipment and applicators for brachy can be found.
Furthermore, High-Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy room is composed of Lead
Door, C-Arm (GE) which is used machine for the imaging, the Controlled Area and
Sterile where the Anesthesia Machine, OR (Operating Room) Light, and the HDR
Machine is found. Console for the HDR Machine (Left Side) and CCTV Monitor (Right
Side), the Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) for brachytherapy which is used by the
physicist if to do planning and lastly the Victoreen Survey Meter which serve as the
thermoluminescence dosimeter of the staffs.
LINAC console has four main monitors, the ARIA System V 15.5 Software where
patients’ information, patients scheduling, treatment records, and treatment plans done
by the physicist can be found. The Treatment Screen which has a software that shows
all the patients scheduled for that day and also the treatment plans by the physicist as
well as the parameters. The DRR Screen where the images obtained appears. The
CCTC monitor is used to monitor patient for the whole duration of the treatment. And
also, there is a Motion control where we can see and monitor the machine inside the
room.
Molding room, it is where we modify or made a custom block depending on what
part or area that is needed to treat. Electron blocks is use to shield normal tissues from
electron beam in therapeutic radiation treatment or the radiation therapy. In making the
custom block, the materials used are the Styrofoam block, electrically heated wire which
serve as the cutter, the heater, the pattern which serve as the outline of the treatment
field, the moulder, which comes in different sizes the 20x20, 14x14, 25x25 and 10x10.
These blocks are made from Cerrobend alloy containing Cadmium and Lead. The
electron applicator, it is used to hold the electron block which also comes in different
sizes, 6x6, 10x10, 14x14, and 20x20. In determining the size of the electron applicator
to use prior to the treatment, it depends on the plan of the radiation oncologist and the
For today’s recorded video presentation, it talks about the two special techniques
in radiation therapy. The Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Image
Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT). IMRT (Intensity Modulated RT) is a three-
dimensional conformal radiotherapy technique which optimize the dose distribution by
varying the radiation fluence across the beam. The delivery is fully dynamic using the
sliding window technique, where each pair of leaves form a small moving window. This
way, the dose is modulated by the size and speed of these windows.
On the other hand, the IGRT (Image Guided RT) is a technique of imaging the
patient anatomy on the treatment machine just prior to each daily dose. It can happen
that while patient is undergoing a treatment the technician can also take images. IGRT
or image-guided radiation therapy is used in conjunction with IMRT and RapidArc for
precise patient positioning. This innovative radiation treatment technology provides
high-resolution three-dimensional images to visualize tumor sites throughout the course
of treatment. In doing so, incremental adjustments to the patient's position can be made
thereby increasing the accuracy of each dose of radiation. IGRT typically allows patients
to breathe normally during their treatment and combines advanced imaging and
treatment capabilities into a single machine.
Thus, in most treatment delivery is verified using variants portal vision system
mounted on a robotic arm the IMRT field is delivered without the patient the predicted
dose from the Eclipse heylia's treatment planning system is compared with the
measured dose from portal vision different tools permit the analysis and comparison of
the two dosematrices treatments are performed by delivering a number of treatment
fields in the following prostate treatment. An example of 5mi RT fields will be delivered
the delivery is fully dynamic using the sliding window technique where each pair of
leaves form a small moving window this way the dose is modulated by the size and the
speed of these windows looking inside the patient shows us the dose contribution of this
first field the target volume and the organ at risk are clearly visible the second field is
delivered from a different direction. Again, the beam moves quickly over the
organ at risk in order to limit the dose delivered to it the treatment continues with the
third field the fourth field and the fifth field.
TERMINOLOGIES:
TERMINOLOGIES:
TOPOGRAM- The CT scout view (topogram) is a 2-dimensional X-ray image
acquired using a CT scanner. The topogram is routinely used in clinical CT
scanning only to define the scan range of the subsequent CT scan.
WORKFLOW- is a sequence of tasks that processes a set of data.
GROSS TARGET VOLUME- is defined as the gross palpable or
visible/demonstrable extent and location of malignant growth.
INTERNAL TARGET VOLUME- is the volume encompassing the CTV, which
takes into account the fact that the CTV varies in position, shape and size.
PLANNING TARGET VOLUME- is the CTV plus a margin to allow for
geometrical uncertainty in its shape and variations in its location relative to the
radiation beams due to organ mobility, organ deformation, and patient setup
variations.
CLINICAL TARGET VOLUME- is defined as the tissue volume that contains the
gross tumor volume (GTV) and subclinical microscopic malignant lesions.
TOPIC: SUMMARY
For today’s activity, we watch a video about Brachytherapy. We were introduced
what is brachytherapy which is a therapy in a short distance that is from the Greek work
brachy means short. This is which the sources or radiation are placed at close proximity
to or distance at the target volume. It is a type of internal radiation therapy in which
seeds, ribbons, or capsules that contain a radiation source are placed in your body, in
or near the tumor. Brachytherapy is a local treatment and treats only a specific part of
your body. It places radioactive sources inside the patient to kill cancer cells and shrink
tumors. This allows your doctor to use a higher total dose of radiation to treat a smaller
area and avoid delivering radiation to some surrounding organs.
Furthermore, the applicator is inserted into the vagina of the patient and since the
applicator has three tubes, two of the straws are inserted into the left and right tubes or
the outer tubes which is called ovoids, and the remaining one is inserted into the middle
tube which is called tandem, and then after inserting the straws you close them. In
inserting the radioactive source, the radiologic technologist must be fast in order to
avoid being exposed in radiation. Just follow the principle of Time, Distance, and
Shielding. Low Dose Rate (LDR) Brachytherapy involves permanently or temporarily
placing radioactive seeds inside or near the tumor to deliver radiation over an extended
period of time, while HDR involves inserting flexible needles into the tumor to deliver a
high dose of radiation over a period of a few minutes.
A video regarding cervical cancer was shown to us today. It's a cancer that
develops in the cells of the cervix, which connects the uterus to the vaginal canal. Most
cervical cancer is caused by different strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a
sexually transmitted infection. Brachytherapy is typically used in conjunction with EBRT
as part of a comprehensive cervical cancer treatment plan. Shown in the video first
were the accessories used for patients with cervical CA cases are pelvic board and
thermoplastic mask. Before any CT scan procedure, we must have the request form
with indicated patient position and accessories to be used. In the CT scan room, when
turning on the CT scanner, the green laser lights will light which is used for patient
centering and alignment.
In the CT scan control room is where you can see the current position of the
patient and will be monitored if the spine of the patient is aligned and also the superior
and inferior border of the spine. Before placing a thermoplastic mask to the patient,
make sure to obtain a topogram image to ensure alignment of the patient’s spine.
Topogram (a CT scout view) is a 2D x-ray image acquired using a CT scanner. In the
video, it showed the lateral view of the patient. After the topogram and some correction
on the patient position, the thermoplastic mask is heated then cools it off then placed on
the pelvic area of the patient. CT markers are placed on the pelvic mask for reference.
After the CT scanning, the image is sent to the physics room, where the treatment
planning is done and this is also where the image is edited, what technique to be used
on the patient, and where the contouring happens and treatment planning. After the
physics room, will then proceed to treatment and setting up the patient. The patient is
positioned inside the room and then scanning and setting up the FOV or field of view for
the treatment.
Furthermore, a yellow and other color outline, which is the OAR or organs at risk,
and a red outline, which is the PTV or planning target volume, were shown in the film.
After selecting the FOV, the machine begins scanning with a 150-second scanning time.
One image was from tomotherapy, while the other was from a CT scan. They must now
be matched. We can accept the image once it has been replicated with the exact patient
location, and then proceed to treatment. Proceed to the status console to begin after
some program finalization.
For today’s discussion we tackle about brain cancer. It's a type of cancer in which
cells in the brain grow out of control and develop tumors. Depending on the type of
tumor, cancerous or malignant brain tumors can grow very quickly. They can cause
problems on the body's functioning and even put one's life in jeopardy. However, brain
Secondary brain tumors are commonly treated with radiotherapy. Its goal is to
decrease the tumor, relieve pressure inside your skull, and alleviate your symptoms.
Patient evaluations, CT scan simulation, target and OAR delineation and planning,
brain CA case. We'll need the equipment for the CT simulation, as well as patient
with arms at the side. The headmask is then applied to immobilize the patient, and the
scan is limited to the vertex of the skull to the base, with a 2cm margin on all sides. The
image is submitted to the physics room for contouring and planning after the simulation.
The patient's location in the treatment simulation is identical to that in the CT simulation.
There are parameters in the control console that you can store after you've correctly
positioned the patient for therapy delivery. To avoid headaches, make sure the patient
With that, photon and megavoltage radiation are used in radiobiology and
fractionation. In some cases, such as when the tumor's histology is unknown, the total
dose can be adjusted (melanoma 5000 cgy, lymphomas 3000 cgy). The overall dose is
usually 4000 cgy in 20 fractions over 5 weeks. The complete brain is irradiated with a
form obstructed at the base of the skull to shield the eyes and include the cerebral
TERMINOLOGIES:
TUMOR- is a solid mass of tissue that forms when abnormal cells group
together.
RADIOBIOLOGY- is a field of clinical and basic medical sciences that involves
the study of the action of ionizing radiation on living things, especially health
effects of radiation.
TOPIC: CT SCAN
Today, we watched videos about CT scan and had FGD to highlight the
important parts of the video. Sir Earl, the assigned instructor for today, narrated some of
his personal experience on CT scan in an actual clinical setting so we can have ideas
on the day-to-day events and the diversity of patients we might soon encounter.
A CT scan may be recommended by your doctor to check for blood clots, broken
bones, brain tumors (cancerous tumors), infection (sinus infection), internal injuries and
bleeding (ruptured spleen), and heart and vascular disease indications (heart disease).
CT scan is a painless diagnostic technique that creates cross-sectional images of bones
and tissues within your body using x-rays and computers. It helps clinicians determine
the optimal location for surgery, biopsy, or radiation therapy, as well as monitor cancer
or heart disease treatment and recovery. The patient will lie on a table that slowly
moves through the tunnel during a CT scan. A large ring called a gantry will rotate
around the patient’s body as you pass down the tunnel. A tube will discharge x-ray
beams from the gantry, and detectors will monitor the amount of radiation absorbed by
the body.
They scan the Uninterrupted Power Supply with Neusoft 128 slice CT scan in the
video given, the DRMC virtual tour (UPS). The control room houses the operating
console, a computer for PACS (picture archiving and communication system), and
access to the hospital's integrated system. In the T scan room, there is a gantry, table,
lead gown, patient's gown, preparation area, and high-pressure syringe. The operational
console has a keyboard, monitor, mouse, buttons to access the gantry from the inside,
and a button and monitor for the high-pressure syringe. We must undertake a warm-up
operation after turning on the machine because of the machine's quality control so that
the tube can be properly warmed up before doing any procedures.
The basic principles of CT scanning and data acquisition are the focus of our discussion
today. The information obtained from the passage of x-ray beams through an area of
anatomy is processed by a computer in computed tomography. The resulting images
are cross-sectional. The elimination of superimposed structures, the capacity to identify
minor changes in density of anatomic structures and anomalies, and the higher image
quality are the key advantages of CT over conventional radiography.
Each CT slice represents a specific plane in the patient’s body. The thickness of the
plane is referred to as the Z axis. The Z axis determines the thickness of the slices. The
data that form the CT slice are further sectioned into elements: width is indicated by X,
while height is indicated by Y.
The different parts of a CT scan machine and its functions was also discussed:
a. Slip rings
b. Generator
c. Cooling systems
d. X-ray source
e. Filtration
f. Collimation
g. Detectors
1. Console - master control center of the CAT scanner. It is used to input all of the
factors related to taking a scan.
2. Patient table - The patient lies on the table (or couch, as it is referred to by some
manufacturers) and is moved within the gantry for scanning.
NAME: JAMBOY, MARIA CHRISTELLE KEITH C. DATE: March 21, 2022
TOPIC: SUMMARY
For today’s activity, we are given a topic to study. The chapter two which
discusses about Data Acquisition and chapter three which is about Image
Reconstruction. The computer in CT uses reconstruction algorithms to solve the many
mathematical equations required to convert information from the detector array to
information suitable for image display. Fortunately, understanding the specific
mathematics involved is not required to comprehend the image reconstruction process.
An algorithm is a precise set of steps that must be followed in a specific order in order to
solve a problem. The majority of computer programming is based on algorithms.
The equipment components used for image construction are hard drive, input
and output device, CPU, and memory. The hard disk (or hard drive) is an essential
component of all CT systems. The number of images that the hard disk can store varies
according to the make and model of the scanner. It is important to remember than an
enormous amount of information is collected for each image. When hard disk space
capacity is reached, existing data must be deleted before any new data can be
acquired. The CPU is the component that interprets computer program instructions and
sequences tasks. It contains the microprocessor, the control unit, and the primary
memory. In the past the CPU design frequently used for CT image reconstruction was
the array processor. Also called a vector processor, this design was able to run
mathematical operations on multiple data elements simultaneously. The central
processing unit, or CPU, interprets computer program instructions and sequences
Image display includes all of the system components necessary to convert the
digital data created from the reconstruction process to electrical signals needed by the
CT display monitor. The display system also includes the ability to display patient
information and scan protocol data, and provides many graphic aids designed to assist
in image interpretation.
In some instances the images are transferred to film. The camera is an output
device that transfers the image from the monitor to the film. The camera used may be a
multiformat camera, although most CT systems today include a laser camera.
Multiformat cameras transfer the image displayed on the monitor to film. Laser cameras
bypass the image on the display monitor and transfer data directly from the computer,
bypassing the video system entirely, thereby significantly improving image quality. The
film used in CT consists of a single emulsion that is sensitive to either the light-emission
spectrum of the video screen phosphor (for the multiformat camera) or to the laser
beam light.
The display functions are the final step in creating the CT image. Analog
monitors display the CT image. Therefore, the digital signal from the computer’s
memory must be converted back to an analog format. Changing the window width
broadens or narrows the range of visible CT numbers. Window width and window level
determine which aspects of an image are displayed as shades of gray. The shade of
gray that is assigned to a specific anatomic structure is related to the structure’s beam
attenuation. Higher Hounsfield values are represented by lighter shades of gray. The
window width selects the range of Hounsfield units for a particular image, and the
window level determines the center Hounsfield unit in this range. In general, the window
level is set at roughly the same level as the Hounsfield value of the tissue of interest.
Optimal window settings are highly subjective, and they vary dramatically within the
field. Published window widths and centers are intended to serve as guidelines only.
Patient conditions as well as personal preference make considerable adjustment
necessary. CT systems offer a variety of functions that allow images to be manipulated
to facilitate diagnosis. Defining an ROI is the first step in many measurement and
display functions. Hounsfield measurement, standard deviation, and distance
measurement may offer valuable diagnostic information. It is important to annotate
images with any information that may not be immediately apparent. Examples of such
annotation include “Images in this study have been flipped, top to bottom” and “Delayed
image: 15 minute post contrast injection.” The technologist must understand the
TOPIC: SUMMARY
We began today's session with a virtual presentation of an actual scan, courtesy of
the DRMC hospital, and then moved on to our focus group discussion, which included
an in-depth discussion of the topic. Both of the patients engaged in the surgery agreed
to be filmed and gave their full consent, which we students appreciate because it
allowed us to observe an actual CT technique in action. First, the patients were
questioned and asked if they had any food allergies, such as to shellfish, eggs, or
eggplants. The tech also looked over the patient's physique for any leftover metallic
materials. Ensure that all metals, such as bra wire, belts, and even buttons, as well as
belly bands, are removed from the body. After being interviewed, the patient is then now
positioned in bed, feet first and supine in the user interface.
On the other hand, the patient’s procedure is a chest and whole abdomen CT
scan. The tech aims for correct planning by straightening the spine, no rolling below
pelvis or the hips part. Once the patient is settled down on the bed, you have to pre-
instruct the patient’s breathing exercise prior to the procedure. Upon entering the control
room, then the procedure can be started. The tech now is communicating with the
patient. Eventually the first procedure was a plain scan. The tech then made additional
reconstruction details for chest area, for lung reconstruction with slice thickness of
5.0/5mm. The tech constantly communicates to the patient. The next procedure is the
administration of saline flush, ask the patient for any discomfort sensation to check for
extravasation, after the flush is the administration of contrast media for chest and
arterial phase then continue the scanning. Consequently, review the images before
letting the patient leave.
Also, they showed about the tibe/heat load, it is the amount of energy deposited
during the exposure. The procedure also has post-procedural care, the reason why the
patient was being asked in the first place if this is their first time undergoing such a
procedure or they had experienced already to interconnect the post-procedural care. In
such cases, if the patient is a first timer, there is a possibility of having delayed onset of
allergic reaction to contrast. Thus the patient must stay for at least 1 hour before
removal of heplock, however if it's not their first time therefore the patient must stay at
least 30-45 minutes depending on the institution.
TOPIC: SUMMARY
TOPIC: MRI
The MRI Gantry, Computer, and Operating Console are the three
essential components. A gantry is a large, typically cylindrical device that
accommodates the patient during imaging. An MRI gantry has no moving
parts and is entirely controlled electronically, with a patient aperture of 50- 60
cm in diameter. In this aperture, RF coils, also known as the RF probe,
surround the patient and produce RF waves. At the same time, it functions as
an RF transmitter and receiver. A computer that is similar to a CT scan but is
faster and larger. More data is acquired during an MRI examination, and the
computations necessary are lengthier and more difficult than in a CT scan,
and finally, MRI operating control. Hydrogen is abundant in the human body,
abundant with a big magnetic moment, and abundant with a large magnetic
moment.
Furthermore, the Gantry, Operating Console, and Computer System are the
three main components. The gantry houses the main magnet and other electromagnetic
devices; however, unlike a CT scanner, the MRI gantry has no moving parts and just
the patient couch. After being placed on the couch and slid to the aperture, the gantry
can be daunting to the patient. The image acquisition and image processing controls
are operated by the special function keys on the operating console, but the majority are
controlled by the computer. The computer system is the third component; the most
common type of computer is the minicomputer, which comes in three sizes. The
computer must be large, fast, and capable of storing and manipulating data.
In addition to that, by the use of the MR magnet this would generate a strong,
stable and spatially uniform polarizing magnetic field that is primary requirement in
creating net nuclear spin magnetization due to the polarization specifies the geometrical
orientation of the oscillations. The polarization of electromagnetic waves refers to the
direction of the electric field; by convention, the polarization of electromagnetic waves
refers to the direction of the electric field. In addition, variables such as weight, stray
field dimension, overall bore length, start-up and operating costs all play a role in
determining which MRI magnet to use.
Thus, the ideal magnet design will be determined by the anticipated demands of
clinical applications as well as the MRI experiments to be done, as available magnet
technologies usually provide a balance between diverse requirements. Permanent,
resistive, and superconducting magnets are the three types of magnets. Shimming was
also discussed, which is used to improve the primary magnetic field uniformity and so
provide a high-quality image.
Today, we talked about the various phantoms and the daily Quality Assurance
and Quality Control test in Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The Radiofrequency coil
testing was the first topic of discussion. Its purpose is to ensure that the coils are in
good working order prior to the procedure.
There are four RF coils discussed. First is the knee coil, it uses phantom bottle.
The knee coil is wrapped around the bottle. The bottle is placed beneath the coil for the
whole-body coil to simulate a human spine. Two bottles are placed within the coil's two
holes to simulate hanging breasts of prone-positioned patients. A ridge is used for the
head coil and is aligned for the collimator light to simulate a patient's head. The
collimator should be aligned with the triple underscore mark on the phantom.
Furthermore, the weekly Quality Assurance and Quality Control follows, with the
technologist inserting a phantom and head coil into the machine. This QAQC is primarily
concerned with the calibration and testing of the machine's coils. The first step
demonstrated was the use of the System Performance Tool's Periodic Image Quality
Test (PIQT) (SPT). The PIQT will then proceed with the phantom scanning and
calibration, which should take about 15-20 minutes. After that timeframe, the
technologist will set the parameters for the RL (right to left), FH (feet to head), and AP.
Manual planning is possible.
Also, using a phantom is also very different from planning for a real patient
because a phantom is only focused with one side. A real patient will have to include its
sagittal, coronal and transverse view planning.
A video regarding a brain scan technique was shown to us. The initial
stage was to scan the patient with a metal detector that had previously stored the
patient's information. The patient is positioned supine with immobilization devices
in place to minimize movement, and MRI-compatible headphones are provided to
reduce MRI noise. The patient is subsequently fitted with a head coil that is
targeted on the IOML. We were also shown the procedure planning which
involved the various pulse sequences for the procedure. Next up is the patient
scanning. the technologist first configured the setup for the seizure MRI
procedure.
AT OPERATING CONSOLE
Obtain a 3D plane localizers
Brain scan planning (sagittal, axial/transverse, coronal)
Start with the 3D plane localizer to have basis for initial planning
Click the same rx and click scan, then plan sagittal planning
FOR SAGITTAL PLANNING: load the 3 plane localizer, click slices (23),
FOV (25), thickness (5), and interval (1)
Uncheck show slices to view middle slice in the sagittal view center the
line following the inter hemispheric fissure, straight to brain in coronal
Scan takes about 2mins 46 secs
FOR AXIAL/TRANSVERSE PLANNING: same as sagittal
Image discussion with Ms. Ivy Krista Diel, RRT for BRAIN
Plain: no enhancement
Contrast: has white enhancement
T1 sequence for brain
for CERVICAL
T1- fat saturation: sequence used for contrast