Morphology-oriented analysis of cerebral SPET using matched magnetic resonance images.
Complementary morphological information is a prerequisite for the detailed analysis of cerebral SPET studies. We therefore developed a technique which allows the alignment of SPET and magnetic resonance scans by imaging identical slices using external landmarks on an individually fitted mask and subsequent two-dimensional image processing for in-plane matching. Regional analysis of tracer activities can be performed directly on the superimposed SPET and MR outline images or by tracing a region of interest on the original MR scan with a parallel display on the matched SPET image, and vice versa. Tests assessing correct in-plane alignment using MRI, inter- and intra-variability of the matching procedure, and its comparability with an objectively determined best-matching position, confirmed the feasibility, accuracy and usefulness of this procedure.
Stollberger
R
R
Magnetic Resonance Institute, Karl-Franzens University, Graz, Austria.
Fazekas
F
F
Payer
F
F
Flooh
E
E
D001921:Brain / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D015899:Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon / Q000379:methods* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data