New Guidelines from the Canadian Association of Nuclear Medicine
The Canadian Association of Nuclear Medicine (“CANM”) have released new Guidelines for Ventilation/Perfusion (V/P SPECT) in Pulmonary Embolism which recommend the benefits of 3-D imaging (SPECT) over 2-D imaging (planar).
Specifically, the CANM Guidelines strongly recommend clinicians use TECHNEGASTM above all other ventilation agents in the diagnosis of Pulmonary Embolism particularly in the presence of other lung conditions, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (“COPD”).
In particular, Cyclopharm note the following excerpts from the CANM Guidelines that specifically reference TECHNEGASTM:
“For ventilation, 99mTc-Technegas is the best radio-aerosol, particularly in patients with COPD. Liquid aerosols produced in nebulizers such as 99mTc-DTPA are inferior for SPECT andshould not be used unless Technegas is not available.”
“Liquid aerosols produced in nebulizers, such as 99mTc-DTPA, are inferior for SPECT, and should not be used unless Technegas is not available. Overall, Technegas remains the best radio-aerosol, particularly in patients with obstructive lung disease. Another advantage is that only a few breaths are sufficient to achieve an adequate amount of activity in the lungs,reducing time and personnel exposure to radiation.”
“In situations of COPD up to 31% of patients may have PE and up to 10% may die. Even thosepatients who have abnormal Chest X ray can still undergo V/P SPECT and in selected patients, V/P SPECT with low dose non-contrast CT could be considered. Technegas is considered the agent of choice in this population as there is less central airway deposition, better peripheral penetration, and it does not wash out as quickly as traditional aerosols.”
James McBrayer, Cyclopharm’s Managing Director and CEO stated “We are thrilled about the release of the CANM Guidelines. Canada has grown to become the largest single country market for TECHNEGASTM globally. The company views its success in expanding sales in Canada, along with the recent endorsement by the CANM, as a very positive indication of TECHNEGASTM’ sales potential into the significantly larger US market, following the anticipated USFDA approval.”
CANM guidelines for ventilation/perfusion (V/P SPECT) in pulmonary embolism
