Apparatus and methods for detecting, localizing, and imaging of radiation in biological systems

摘要

A collimating probe and methods of use for detecting, localizing, and mapping or imaging radiation emanating from a hidden source, such as within the body of a living being. The probe comprises a radiation detector and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the solid angle through which radiation may pass to the detector. That solid angle is continuously variable. The probe is constructed so that the only radiation reaching the detector is that which is within said solid angle. By adjusting the solid angle from a maximum to a minimum while moving the probe adjacent the source of radiation and sensing the detected radiation, one is able to precisely locate the probe at the source of radiation. The probe can be used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. A receptacle is also provided to hold a specimen on the probe to detect the presence of radiation emanating therefrom. A printer and RS 232 data ports are provided. This collimating probe is typically used with the same radiopharmaceuticals used for nuclear medicine imaging.