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Epilepsy Surgery Evaluation |
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| MRI | Video EEG | Neuropsychological Testing | Wada | PET | SPECT | MEG | Implanted Electrodes |
SPECT - Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography
Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) is a diagnostic procedure to show how the brain functions. It can help pinpoint the area causing seizures by showing abnormal blood flow associated with seizures. There are two types of SPECT scans. Ictal SPECT is performed during or immediately following a seizure. Interictal SPECT is performed between seizures.
The SPECT scan uses a computer to generate three-dimensional pictures that look like slices of the brain. The procedure uses a small amount of isotpe called neurolyte. The scan detects the tiny amounts of radioactivity and produces a picture of the brain showing where blood flow is increased or decreased. The area of the the brain where blood flow is increased will contain more radioactivity.
Procedure
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A small IV line is placed into your vein.
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A small amount of neurolyte is injected into the vein and carried to the brain through the blood stream. This injection may occur during a seizure (Ictal SPECT) or between seizures (Interictal SPECT).
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After injection you will lie flat on a special table that will slide into the scanner. Your head is positioned in a holder and a strap i placed across the forehead to hold your head still.
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The machine may make a noise and the camera is close to your head. There will be no pain during the procedure.
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The scan usually lasts 30 minutes.
SISCOM - Subtraction Ictal SPECT Co-Registered to MRI
Subtraction Ictal SPECT Co-Registered to MRI (SISCOM) is a process the physician uses to evaluate your SPECT scans. In this process the two SPECT scans (Ictal and Interictal) and the MRI are transferred to a computer. The two SPECT scans are compared and highlight the areas of greatest activity during the seizure. The image is then placed on the MRI image. The resulting image is the SISCOM. The epileptologist then presents these findings in three- dimensional brain images. These findings are used to determine the if there is an area that may be removed to reduce or eliminate your seizures.
Click here to view PowerPoint illustration of the SISCOM process
