Nuclear Cardiology: Nuclear Cardiology:

Chapter 6 / SPECT Myocardial Perfusion Imaging 616SPECT MyocardialPerfusion Imaging Acquisitionand Processing ProtocolsIn view of the variety of gamma camera systems that arecommercially available, it is difficult to incorporate everyacquisition/acquisition parameter adequately into a fewsimple charts. Single-headed systems have different acquisitionparameters than triple-headed systems, and both aredifferent from dual-headed systems. One must also considerthe radiopharmaceutical(s) and imaging protocols oneemployed. Acquisition parameters will vary depending onthese variables.This chapter highlights:• Acquisition parameters• Processing parametersOnce the purchase of a gamma camera has been made, it is advisablethat a professional application specialist visit the laboratory to train thetechnical staff in applying the vendor-recommended acquisition andprocessing protocols. This is crucial for optimal results.Nuclear cardiology tests are to be performed under general physiciansupervision. That is, the medical director is responsible on an ongoingbasis for the training of nonphysician personnel who actually performthe diagnostic procedures, for protocols and policies, and for the appropriatemaintenance of necessary equipment and supplies.All acquisition parameters listed in Table 6-1 are based on the“Updated imaging guidelines for nuclear cardiology procedures” (1) (online: www.asnc.org; menu: library and resources: guidelines and stan-From: Contemporary Cardiology: Nuclear Cardiology, The BasicsF. J. Th. Wackers, W. Bruni, and B. L. Zaret © Humana Press Inc., Totowa, NJ61