About Us
Nuclear medicine is a branch of medicine that uses radioactive substances to diagnose and treat cancer. It is a precise and targeted form of treatment that can be used to deliver radiation directly to cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. Nuclear medicine can also be used to diagnose cancer by providing images of the tumor and its spread.
Nuclear medicine applications for cancer treatment include:
- Radionuclide therapy: This type of therapy uses radioactive substances to kill cancer cells. The radioactive substances are injected into the body or taken orally, and they travel to the cancer cells. Once they reach the cancer cells, they release radiation that kills the cells.
- PET scans: PET scans use a radioactive tracer to create images of the body. The tracer is injected into the body, and it travels to the cancer cells. The PET scan can then show how active the cancer cells are and how much they have spread.
- SPECT scans: SPECT scans use a radioactive tracer to create 3D images of the body. The tracer is injected into the body, and it travels to the cancer cells. The SPECT scan can then show the location of the cancer cells and how much they have spread.
Nuclear medicine is a safe and effective treatment for cancer. It is often used in combination with other cancer treatments, such as surgery and chemotherapy. Nuclear medicine can help to improve the chances of successful treatment and to reduce the side effects of other treatments.
Fundamental Advantages of Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine is used for cancer treatment by using trace amounts of radioactive substances to know about organ function and image-specific regions. By monitoring the absorption or the uptake of radiopharmaceuticals in the targeted tissues, the level of organ or tissue function can be determined. Typically, the choice of radionuclides depends on the body area being examined and the type of study being undertaken.
When the patient is undergoing the procedure, a radioactive tracer (radiopharmaceutical) is introduced to the patient through intravenous injection, oral ingestion, or any other administration route which is favorable depending on the intended organ and the function performed by that organ. Gamma cameras, Positron Emission Tomography (PET) cameras, or stationary radiation detectors are determined using the organ metabolism, function, and or blood flow. The resultant images are furthermore interpreted and quantified for further analysis.
Treatment & Services
A PET scan stands apart from other imaging methods by showcasing molecular activity, enabling early disease detection. As a highly dependable tool, it aids in identifying various disease processes. PET CT, a fusion of two imaging technologies, provides comprehensive insights. PET measures biological processes, while CT generates detailed cross-sectional anatomical images. The integration of both datasets forms a precise three-dimensional hybrid image, effectively mapping metabolic processes across all spatial dimensions.
Diagnostic Imaging
1. PET/CT Scans
- High-resolution imaging to detect and monitor cancer.
- FDG PET CT
- PSMA PET CT
- FAPI PET CT
- DOTA PET
- DOPA PET
- EXENDIN Imaging
Patient Resources
Q: What to Expect?
Ans: Step-by-step guides for each procedure:
1. How to prepare for a PET Scan?
– FDG PET: Avoid eating or drinking anything other than water for at least 6 hours before the scan. Diabetic patients should consult their doctor about managing blood sugar levels before the test.
– Other PETs: 4 hours of fasting if a simultaneous contrast CT study is planned.
2. During the Procedure:
– You will be injected with a radiotracer and asked to wait for it to circulate (45-90 minutes). Then, you will lie on a scanning bed that moves through the PET/CT machine. The procedure is painless and takes about 20-40 minutes.
3. After Procedure:
Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the radiotracer from your body. Results will be discussed with your physician.
2. SPECT Imaging
Detailed 3D imaging for better diagnostic accuracy.
3. Bone Scans
Identify cancer spread to bones with precision.
4. PET/CT Guided Biopsy
Combining imaging precision with biopsy procedures for accurate diagnosis.
Therapeutic Services
5. Radioisotope Therapy
Targeted treatments using isotopes like I-131 and Lutetium-177.l
6. TARE (Transarterial Radioembolization)
Targeted treatment for liver tumors by delivering radiation directly to the tumor site.
7. Bone Pain Palliation
Effective relief for cancer-induced bone pain using targeted radiopharmaceuticals.
Theranostics
1.What is Theranostics?
Theranostics combines therapy and diagnostics into a single approach, utilizing radiopharmaceuticals to both identify and treat cancers. This personalized method ensures precision targeting of cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues.
2. How it works?
– Diagnostic Phase: Radiotracers are used to locate cancer cells through advanced imaging techniques such as PET scans.
– Therapeutic Phase: Once identified, the same or a similar radiopharmaceutical delivers targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells.
3. Applications in Oncology:
– Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): Lutetium-177 DOTATATE therapy for treating advanced NETs.
– Prostate Cancer: PSMA-targeted radioligand therapy for effective management of metastatic prostate cancer.
– Thyroid Cancer: Radioiodine therapy (I-131) for differentiated thyroid cancers.
4. Advantages of Theranostics:
– Personalized treatment tailored to the patient’s unique tumor biology.
– Improved outcomes with minimized side effects.
– Real-time monitoring of treatment efficacy through imaging.
FAQs
1. Is nuclear medicine safe?
Yes, nuclear medicine procedures are safe and use small amounts of radioactive materials that are carefully controlled. The benefits of accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment outweigh the minimal risks.
2. How long does a PET scan take?
The entire process, including preparation, injection of the radiotracer, and imaging, typically takes 2-3 hours. The scan itself lasts about 20-40 minutes.
3. What are the side effects of radioisotope therapy?
Side effects vary depending on the type of therapy but may include mild fatigue, temporary changes in blood counts, or localized discomfort. Your care team will provide detailed guidance and support.