.aspx)
Brain Scan Imaging FAQs
How does High Definition Brain SPECT Imaging work?
A Brain SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) scan evaluates blood flow in the brain. Because blood delivers oxygen and other nutrients to brain cells, it’s an important measure of brain function. Too much blood flow or too little blood flow in given areas of the brain may be indicative of specific disorders. CereScan’s high definition functional brain scans can precisely measure blood flow in up to 85 regions of the brain.
How do I make an appointment to receive a High Definition Brain SPECT scan?
Patients are advised to consult with their medical doctor in order to obtain a referral for a functional brain scan at CereScan, as well as any needed post-scan treatment. CereScan requires a physician’s referral for all patients. Referral forms can be found on the Forms page of this site.
Are there any side effects or risks to the brain imaging procedure?
The scan does not involve a dye, so allergic reactions are very rare; if one does occur it usually involves only a mild, self-limited skin reaction such as a rash. Please let the technologist know if you experience any unusual symptoms during or after the injection of the radioisotope.
Is High Definition Brain SPECT imaging safe for children?
Radiation exposure from High Definition Brain SPECT Imaging is minimal. In its assessment of risk to children for diagnostic imaging procedures used in clinical and research investigations, the Office of the Clinical Director of the National Institutes of Health stated: "Health risks from low-level radiation could not be detected…”
Is the use of brain SPECT imaging accepted in the medical community?
While functional brain imaging is not considered an exact science for diagnosing psychiatric conditions, there are hundreds of peer-reviewed, published research studies utilizing SPECT for the evaluation of these conditions. If interested, please contact our clinical staff for additional information and resources.
The Imaging Process FAQs
Will I feel pain when the radiopharmaceutical is injected?
You will only feel a small pinch from the needle as it is placed into your vein.
Will I be alone during the scan?
No, the technologist (and a parent if appropriate) will be nearby during the process.
What should I do after the scans?
You can return to any regular daily activities such as driving, work, school, or exercise. You don’t need to avoid physical contact with others. However, it will be necessary to increase your intake of fluids to aid the elimination of the radioisotope from your body. The goal is to urinate twice in the two hours following the injection. The technologist will provide discharge instructions.
If you are traveling by airplane within 24 hours following a scan, please make sure to let the technologist know. If any special precautions are necessary, the technologist will advise you. If you are nursing, you will receive and need to comply with the Policies and Procedures for Patients who are breastfeeding.
When will I get the results of my brain scan?
When your scans are completed, a nuclear medicine physician will review your images, prepare a report and discuss the results with a CereScan clinician. A final appointment will occur when the clinician will review your brain scan report and images with you. Your referring physician will receive a copy of your brain scan report and images.
Will I get a diagnosis from the brain scans?
Your doctor will use the data from your functional brain scan report to help form a conclusion about your condition or assign a diagnosis. CereScan does not directly assign you the diagnosis.
Learn more about brain imaging and how CereScan is helping doctors and patients. Follow us on Twitter and become a fan of CereScan on Facebook.