Methodist North Hospital recently unveiled new diagnostic technology that delivers less radiation than previous available technology in the Memphis metro area.

 

The Infinia Hawkeye 4 SPECT/CT allows patients with tumors, inflammation and infection processes, and disorders of the lymphatic system, thyroid, parathyroid, skeleton, heart, and brain to experience more comfortable and less time-consuming exams—while also delivering a smaller x-ray dose.

 

“This newest technology allows for testing at a molecular level not available with other diagnostic procedures and scanners,” explained Gary Britt, director of radiology services for Methodist North Hospital. “SPECT/CT provides pre-surgical planning for many specific disease processes and diagnostic confidence not seen with other tests.”

 

The SPECT/CT represents the latest advancement in hybrid scanners, combining nuclear imaging with computed tomography (CT) while also providing physicians with information about both the nature and the precise location of disease in a single exam that is quick and comfortable for patients.

 

“According to a recent study done by the Archives of Internal Medicine, the overuse of CT scans will lead to new cancer deaths,” said Britt. “Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare is aware of the risks of radiation overexposure and takes that into account when they acquire new diagnostic technology.”

 

A typical exam takes as little as 10 minutes. The exam table is designed to let patients get on and off easily.

 

“It’s also comfortable,” said Britt, “which means patients can easily hold still, letting doctors get the best possible images.”

 

Before the scan, the patient is injected with a safe radioactive substance, which travels in the bloodstream. During the exam, a detector records the radioactive emissions, and the CT scanner takes pictures of the patient’s anatomy.

 

Images from heart exams help doctors locate areas where the heart muscle is not receiving enough blood. Images from cancer exams show doctors the exact location of active tumors so they can effectively plan surgery or other treatments. “With the SPECT/CT, physicians can accurately detect disease that may not be detected by other means, such as with CT scans alone,” said Britt.