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Single photon emission computed tomography ( SPECT ) Neuroimaging contributes to more precise diagnosis, which allows for more individualized treatment at Sierra Tucson.

The “Special Issue: Innovations” of the Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Weekly News for policy and program decision-makers (ADAW) dated October 25, 2010 (Volume 22 Number 41), features an article titled, “Sierra Tucson enhancing assessment by using SPECT imaging technology.” A premier treatment facility, Sierra Tucson provides in-depth assessment and comprehensive treatment for addictions, mental/behavioral disorders, and chronic pain.

Sierra Tucson’s Medical Director Robert R. Johnson, D.O., advised that close to 1 in 4 people seen at Sierra Tucson are receiving a SPECT ( Single photon emission computed tomography ) scan as part of the assessment process. The decision of whether to perform a scan is made in conjunction with the attending physician, who can determine whether information from a scan might have value for a particular patient. One group that Johnson considers good candidates for the SPECT scans are individuals who appear to have comorbid disorders. In these cases a scan might help reveal some information to give a clearer picture of the presenting problems.

Johnson told ADAW that SPECT scans contribute to accurate assessment but do not themselves produce a diagnosis. He believes neuroimaging will be critical to moving away from diagnoses based on DSM symptom clusters and toward a reliance on biological markers that will allow for more individualized treatment. “I see us moving more to having diagnostic laboratories, providing SPECT, PET or fMRI scanning,” said Johnson. He added, “It is important not to overreach. We don’t use this to diagnose. It is one piece of the puzzle.” Dr. Johnson noted the benefit of neurobiology in helping the patient move away from guilt and shame.

ADAW also reported that Sierra Tucson has incorporated SPECT imaging as an option in its Assessment & Diagnostic Program (ADP), offered either as a four-and-a-half day inpatient service or a two-day outpatient service (depending on the complexity of the case). The imaging constitutes one element of a whole-person review under ADP that encompasses medical, psychological, family, and other dynamics. A psychiatric evaluation always accompanies any use of SPECT technology. The ADP service is often used by entities such as medical boards and employers to help evaluate an individual.

Dr. Johnson indicated in the ADAW interview that he considers a great benefit from SPECT to be the motivational factor for the client, who is able to see how substance use has affected brain physiology and blood flow to the brain. The information revealed by SPECT imaging allows staff to ask better questions of the patient and to have more impactful conversations. Patients will have a better understanding of why they struggle to make positive choices, and they may appreciate the need for extra assistance from professionals and the community to improve their recovery prospects.

Source: Dyersburg State Gazette

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