SPECT-CT imaging of obscure foot and ankle pain

Abstract

Obscure pain around the foot and ankle can be notoriously difficult to localise. Anatomical imaging studies will often require supporting evidence from functional scintigraphic studies in the more difficult cases. Single photon emission computerised tomography-computed tomography (SPECT-CT) is a novel technique combining these two studies instantaneously in a single scan. We present six cases from our ongoing experience with SPECT-CT. Caution in the use of SPEC-CT is suggested by one of these cases. Five cases extol the virtues we perceive of the technique whilst the sixth presents a note of caution. Our findings are supported in the current literature and serve to refine the place for this emerging imaging technique.