Scintigraphy is the measurement and imaging of the radioactively labeled substances (radiopharmaceuticals) described above in the body using a gamma camera to visualize organ function. This takes the form of individual images (e.g., thyroid scintigraphy), whole-body images (e.g., skeletal scintigraphy), or serial (dynamic) images (e.g., renal scintigraphy). Scintigraphy can be used to test virtually all organ systems for metabolic function.
“SPECT” (single photon emission computed tomography), like radiological computed tomography (CT), provides cross-sectional imaging, i.e., slice-by-slice imaging of organ function in a volume; SPECT can also be combined with radiological computed tomography in the form of “SPECT/CT,” which allows better spatial mapping.
Above all, so-called hybrid imaging – the combination of complementary imaging methods in one device (SPECT/CT, but also PET/CT) and thus also in one examination procedure – opens up completely new possibilities for diagnosis, treatment planning and therapy success monitoring; this is particularly the case in cancer (PET/CT), but also in orthopedics (skeletal system), cardiology (heart attack risk assessment) and many other areas.”
You will need: Referral (with a detailed question), previous images/reports.
The examinations consist of three phases: In the preparation phase, the radioactive substance is specifically prepared for each patient and then administered (usually intravenously). The technical phase involves the execution of scintigraphy, SPECT, or PET imaging, including image evaluation. The information phase (specialist interpretation) concludes the process.
You will receive a minimal amount of a radioactive substance (radiopharmaceutical) with a short half-life. After 20-240 minutes, it will be sufficiently accumulated in the target organ, and the examination can be conducted.
Some health insurance companies reimburse the costs of the examination:
SVA
KFA
BVA
