Introduction of a novel ultrahigh sensitivity collimator for brain SPECT imaging.

Purpose: Noise levels of brain SPECT images are highest in central regions, due to preferential attenuation of photons emitted from deep structures. To address this problem, the authors have designed a novel collimator for brain SPECT imaging that yields greatly increased sensitivity near the center of the brain without loss of resolution. This hybrid collimator consisted of ultrashort cone-beam holes in the central regions and slant-holes in the periphery (USCB).

Development of a cost-effective modular SPECT/CT scanner.

Purpose: To develop a combined SPECT/CT based on a conventional gamma camera with the following design goals: (i) the subject is scanned on the same bed without moving between SPECT and CT scans, (ii) maintenance of full diagnostic utility of both scanners, (iii) a minimal equipment footprint which is adaptable to different site configurations, (iv) a modular design so that either scanner can be upgraded without impacting the other scanner and (v) cost-effectiveness.

Methods: A Philips SKYLight gamma camera was combined with a single-slice helical CT. The CT bed has been modified by mounting on wheels and is attached to a track in the floor when required.