Are SPECT brain scans accurate?

And, third, SPECT is among the least expensive neuroimaging tools and has had insurance reimbursement codes for greater than 20 years. SPECT’s prolific use in peer-reviewed research supports that it is a well-established and reliable measure of brain function (regional cerebral blood flow—rCBF) [4].

What are the disadvantages of a SPECT scan?

However, SPECT has issues, including long scan times and low-resolution images prone to artifacts and attenuation. Some artifacts can easily be misidentified as perfusion defects. SPECT also does not provide a quantifiable estimate of the blood flow, whereas PET does, experts say.

Why would you need a SPECT scan?

A single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan is an imaging test that shows how blood flows to tissues and organs. It may be used to help diagnose seizures, stroke, stress fractures, infections, and tumors in the spine.

What does a brain SPECT scan diagnose?

Your doctor has ordered a brain SPECT scan. The role of this procedure is to diagnose Alzheimer’s and other neuro-degenerative diseases, stroke, seizure, and to evaluate memory loss.

How much is a brain SPECT?

How Much Does a Brain SPECT Cost? On MDsave, the cost of a Brain SPECT ranges from $1,441 to $2,817. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can save when they buy their procedure upfront through MDsave.

When should you get a SPECT scan?

SPECT scanning is also useful for presurgical evaluation of medically uncontrolled seizures (Fig. 1). The test can be performed between seizures (interictal) or during a seizure (ictal) to determine blood flow to areas where the seizures originate.

How long does a brain SPECT take?

Your scan will take approximately 30 minutes. During this time you will be required to lie flat on your back, without moving. Using a special nuclear medicine camera, pictures of your brain will be obtained.