Abstract for presentation at 38th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Australian and New Zealand Society of Nuclear Medicine 2008

Introduction of NeuroStat to the Image Processing Workflow for the Routine Analysis of Clinical FDG-PET Studies

  • Mr Timothy Saunder, Centre for P.E.T., Austin Health, Australia
  • Mr Gareth Jones, Centre for P.E.T., Austin Health, Australia
  • Dr Graeme O'Keefe, Centre for P.E.T., Austin Health, Australia
  • Mr Jason Bradley, Centre for P.E.T., Austin Health, Australia
  • Ms Kunthi Pathmaraj, Centre for P.E.T., Austin Health, Australia
  • Prof Christopher Rowe, Centre for P.E.T., Austin Health, Australia

    • Objective: To introduce the routine use of NeuroStat in the reporting of FDG-PET for dementia patients

    Methods: Within our department, up to 15 patients per week are imaged with FDG-PET for evaluation of dementia on a Philips Allegro PET camera.

    NeuroStat provides three-dimensional spatial normalisation and statistical analysis of images and the ability to compare a patient’s scan with a database of scans from normal elderly subjects. In addition, an additional image database consisting of Austin FDG images was created, aiding accurate interpretation of FDG-PET studies.

    The Austin FDG databases consists of 25 normal healthy controls (mean 72.3 yrs, PIB negative, MR normal).

    PET images are sent in DICOM format to an image processing server where conversion to Interfile is performed with resulting images placed in the NeuroStat import area. Technologists perform the NeuroStat analysis using the Austin FDG database, and provide a hardcopy of results for the reporting physicians.

    Results: A workflow has been implemented which facilitates the processing of FDG brain images. In addition, a teaching library has been created to introduce and familiarise physicians to NeuroStat.

    Conclusion: The introduction of NeuroStat to the clinical setting with our department has enhanced the information available for physicians in evaluating FDG-PET brain scans of dementia patients.

    Conference Organiser - ICMS Pty Ltd