Impact of Mobile Phone Interference on Gamma Camera Performance

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging Technology
• Nuclear Medicine
• Electromagnetic Compatibility

Background:

• Mobile phone electromagnetic interference (EMI) is a known concern for sensitive medical equipment.
• Previous reports suggest EMI can negatively impact gamma camera system performance.
• This necessitates an evaluation of mobile phone usage policies in nuclear medicine departments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential for electromagnetic interference (EMI) from a mobile phone to affect gamma camera imaging.
• To compare the susceptibility of two different gamma camera systems to EMI.
• To provide evidence for potential restrictions on mobile phone use in nuclear medicine.

Main Methods:

• A 3G Apple iPhone 6 was tested with a thyroid phantom on Siemens E-Cam and GE Discovery 670 SPECT/CT gamma cameras.
• Static images were acquired in various modes and positions.
• Image analysis involved arithmetic assessment and comparison to baseline images to detect EMI effects.

Main Results:

• Initial image assessment showed no abnormalities.
• Upon arithmetic processing, the Siemens E-Cam exhibited an increased ring of activity on the inferior right lobe when mobile signals were activated.
• This effect was not observed on the GE Discovery 670, with a statistically significant difference in count differences noted between the two systems (P = 0.0004).

Conclusions:

• Gamma camera function can be influenced by EMI from mobile phones.
• The Siemens E-Cam demonstrated susceptibility to EMI, unlike the GE Discovery 670.
• Further research using SPECT acquisition is recommended to explore potential error amplification.