(99m)Tc thyroid imaging system using multiple imaging plates

Phys Med. 2009 Jun;25(2):73-81. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2008.05.003. Epub 2008 Jul 7.

Abstract

A system for taking static thyroid (99m)Tc images was devised by using multiple imaging plates (IPs) and a low-energy high resolution collimator. System spatial resolution of the IP systems and the gamma camera was determined by referring to standards set by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association. Sensitivity was represented by using lower detection limits (LDLs). The sensitivity and resolution of IP systems using 16 IP probes connecting two collimators and 9 IPs were determined by using a 20 ml thyroid phantom, and compared with the sensitivity of gamma cameras. The sensitivity of the IP systems increased in proportion to the number of IPs. The sensitivity and resolution of a probe using 6 IPs and a high resolution collimator were equivalent to or superior to the gamma camera for taking static thyroid (99m)Tc images. IP systems can be applied clinically as mobile static nuclear imaging devices. The performance of IP systems should be thoroughly investigated for combinations of various collimators and the number of IPs in order to verify their efficacy for imaging all organs.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Computer-Aided Design
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Gamma Cameras*
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / instrumentation*
  • Image Enhancement / methods
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / instrumentation*
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Phantoms, Imaging
  • Radionuclide Imaging / instrumentation*
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Technetium*
  • Thyroid Gland / diagnostic imaging*

Substances

  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Technetium