In recent years, SPECT (Single-photon emission computerized
tomography) scans have become prominent, although somewhat
controversial, in the medical field for assisting in the diagnosis
of a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
SPECT scans are a type of imaging that depict how blood flows to
organs and tissues. Prior to the scan, a radioactive
“tracer” is injected into your bloodstream. As the
tracer moves through your body, it collects in the body's
organs and tissues. The scan records the location of the tracer,
producing a 3-D picture. The colours of the imaging demonstrate the
level of blood perfusion in any given area.
A SPECT scan is different than other types of imaging, such as
an MRI, because it evaluates function as opposed to structure.
Areas where blood flow is altered can be detected, even where there
is no noticeable difference in the anatomy of the area. For this
reason, SPECT scans are now largely recognized in the medical
community as a tool to aid in the
