ABSTRACT
We designed the GammaKey system for the acquisition, storage and analysis of images from semi-analogue gamma scintillation cameras (GSCs). The GammaKey system, operating on a standard PC, replicates the functionality of earlier dedicated computer systems, allows the exchange of data in the DICOM format and has an open architecture enabling the development of new diagnostic techniques. The main purpose of the GammaKey is to enable the continued use of old GSCs which have functional scintillation crystals, but also to permit data exchange with new digital GSCs. The GammaKey has been technically validated by standards established by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association. The GammaKey has been used for seven years in two leading centres for nuclear medicine in Serbia (the Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, and the Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad) in approximately 30,000 patients. Clinical application proves that the GammaKey is a robust and reliable system with high-quality image output. Data processing can be upgraded with non-standard features added on request as shown in two examples: (1) the testing of splenectomy efficacy in the case of thrombocytopenia with normal production; and (2) the detection and localisation of parathyroid adenomas.
Subject(s)
Gamma Cameras , Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/methods , Medical Informatics/methods , Algorithms , Automation , Computer Systems , Humans , Lung/diagnostic imaging , Nuclear Medicine/methods , Parathyroid Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging , Perfusion , Radionuclide Imaging , Saliva/metabolism , Serbia , Software , Splenectomy/methods , Thrombocytopenia/surgeryABSTRACT
AIM: To assess the clinical role of monoclonal immunoscintigraphy for the detection of metastasis and recurrence of colorectal cancer. METHODS: Monoclonal immunoscintigraphy was performed in patients operated on for colorectal adenocarcinoma suspected of local recurrence and metastatic disease. The results were compared with conventional diagnostics. RESULTS: Immunoscintigraphic investigation was done in 53 patients. Tumor recurrence occurred in 38 patients, and was confirmed by other diagnostic modalities in 35. In 15 patients, immunoscintigraphic findings were negative, and confirmed in 14 with other diagnostic methods. Comparative analysis confirmed good correlation of immunoscintigraphic findings and the results of conventional diagnostics and the level of tumor marker carcinoembryonic antigen. Statistical analysis of parameters of radiopharmaceutical groups imacis, indimacis and oncoscint presented homogenous characteristics all of three radiopharmaceuticals. The analysis of immunoscintigraphic target focus was clearly improved using tomography. CONCLUSION: Immunoscintigraphy is highly specific and has a good predictive value in local recurrence of colorectal cancer.
