PET

Scanning acutely ill patients from a neuro-intensive care unit environment presents a unique challenge.  PET studies may last several hours so it is essential that the case the patient receives in the ward environment is maintained.  Keeping the patient stable not only preserves their well-being but also ensures that the scan resutls are an accurate reflection of the patients physiological state.

From the outset the WBIC was designed with the care of critically ill patients in mind.  Its sitting as part of the NCCU enables safe, rapid patient transport, and within the Centre the use of space has been optimised allowing easy transfer of the patient from bed to scanner.  The scanner has a well stocked and spacious clean area should the patient need preparation before the scan.  Within the scan room, facilities are availble for continuous ventilation and monitoring.  All important physiological parameters are monitored continiously including during transfer.

A large multidisciplinary team is essential for every scan.  This is necessary for providing the intensive level of care and scientific expertise necessary for quantitative evaluation of brain function.  typically this would consist of a clinician, a neurointensive nurse, a radiographer, and a cross-skilled scientist.

The provision of these facilities and the close co-operation of A&E, Radiology and the NCCU enabls the accurate and rapid assessment of patients.

The Facilities

The WBIC scanner is a General Electric PET Scanner (Milwaukee, WI; effective isotropic resolution: 6.8 mm).

We are supported by the on-site WBIC Radiochemistry department.