SPECT/MRI INSERT
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Silicon Photomultiplier Based Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography Magnetic Resonance Imaging Insert [SiPM-Based SPECT/MRI Insert]. Pilot Study to determine if it is possible to generate combined and simultaneous SPECT/MRI images when placing an SPECT insert inside a MRI scanner.
IRAS ID
281345
Contact name
Brian Hutton
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
EDGE ID: 147579
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z63641062022 10 06, UCL Data Protection Registration Number
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 23 days
Research summary
Internationally there is increasing clinical use of combined Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) but to date there has been no clinical system developed capable of simultaneous acquisition of Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) and MRI data. There has been development of preclinical systems but there are several challenges facing researchers who are developing a clinical prototype including the need for the system to be compact and stationary with MRI-safe components.
There are several potential advantages offered by simultaneous acquisition of MRI and SPECT images, rather than totally independent acquisition i.e. no need for 2 separate scan appointments and therefore a double scan time for the patient). The reduction of the overall scan time and associated improvements in patient comfort and compliance are important.
We have designed and constructed a clinical SPECT/MRI INSERT system. This miniature SPECT camera can safely be positioned inside an MRI scanner so that a patient could have both imaging techniques completed at the same time. The SPECT camera is small and therefore will only permit scanning of a person’s head, knee, ankles or feet. The SPECT camera can also work as a standalone miniature SPECT camera.
The aim of this project is to test this SPECT/MRI insert system both in conjunction with MRI and as a standalone SPECT camera, in patients that have been injected with a gamma emitting radioisotope for a Standard of Care (SoC) SPECT/CT or planar scintigraphy scan. Can this INSERT system produce images of sufficient technical quality?
The project main aim is to collect some pilot data to assess resultant image quality (i.e, assess the technological mechanisms of this device with regards to distortion, uniformity, artefact & signal to noise ratios).
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/YH/0077
Date of REC Opinion
20 Apr 2023
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion