SPECT-CT (Early Cancer Diagnosis)

· Those who wish to get a cancer screening in Seongnam, South Korea.
· Those who face a high risk of cancer.
· Those who wish to track progression of heart diseases.
· Those who wish to track disorders in their bone, fall bladder and intestines.

SPECT, or Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography images are obtained following an injection of a radiopharmaceutical often used for nuclear medicine scans. It uses radioactive materials and a specially designed gamma camera to produce 3D images of your internal organs. CT, or Computed Tomography on the other hand is used to produce multiple images inside the body and provide excellent anatomic information.

SPECT-CT is where both scans are taken to measure and produce images when merged. The combined scan can provide more precise results and clearly identify abnormalities such as tumors or Alzheimer's disease.

General Procedure often includes:

1. Radioactive tracer will be inserted through an IV.
2. You will be asked to lie down in position of a ring shaped scanner.
3. Stay still in position until SPECT-CT study is completed.
4. Camera will create 3D images of your internal organs and tissues.

<Advantages>
· Non Invasive
· Fast scanning time
· Accurate results
· Painless procedure

<Limitations>
· You may experience bleeding, pain or swelling at the area of needle insertion
· Possible but very rarely, you become allergic to the radioactive tracer

For most people, SPECT scans are safe. But due to receiving an infusion of radioactive tracer, you may experience:

· Bleeding, pain or swelling where the needle was inserted in your arm
· An allergic reaction to the radioactive tracer (rare)

Before the procedure, please:
· Take off all metallic jewelry
· Inform the technologist if you're pregnant or breast-feeding
· List of all the medications and supplements you take

After the procedure, please:
· Follow all aftercare guidelines provided by the doctor
· Drink more fluids to help flush the tracer from your body

Q1: What is the difference between SPECT and PET?
A1: The type of radiotracers used are different. SPECT scans measure Gamma Rays while PET measure photons produced by decaying of radiotracers.

Q2: Are there any potential side effects of SPECT-CT?
A2: There are usually no side effects to having the scan. But ensure you drink a lot of water and check with the doctor if you have any concerns.

Q3: How long will I have to wait for the results to come out?
A3: Usually, it will take about 24 - 48 hours until the results are out.

Q4: Is it safe to be around my pregnant wife after a SPECT scan?
A4: Your body's tissues will be exposed to radiation during PET scan. Therefore, it is important that close contact with pregnant women, babies or young children be avoided for a few hours after the procedure.

Q5: Will it be possible for me to drive myself back after the procedure?
A5: Usually, you would be able to drive yourself home. However, if you had taken a Valium or Ativan before the procedure, you must have someone else to drive for you instead.

Q6: What will happen if I move during the procedure?
A6: It is very important that you stay as still as possible throughout the procedure to produce a high accuracy 3D images.

[Clinic Name] Bundang Jesaeng Hospital
[Location] Seongnam, South Korea
[Nearest Station/ Nearest Tourist Destination] Walking distance to supermarkets and cafes, 90 mins train ride to Seoul city center, places to hike nearby.
[Clinic Opening Time] Monday - Friday (9:00AM - 5:30PM); Saturday (9:00AM - 12:30AM)