Dynamic PET Imaging Research Project Initiated in Switzerland

A new study has been initiated to examine patients with tumors in the chest or abdomen, and compare conventional quantitative techniques, such as standard uptake value (SUV), with more advanced kinetic and compartmental models. One of the primary goals of the research is to evaluate how controlled delivery technology can enable dynamic imaging by providing additional clinical utility and making these advanced techniques more effective.

Medrad, Inc. (Warrendale, PA, USA) has signed a research agreement with the University of Zurich (Switzerland) to study dynamic positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with the Medrad Intego PET infusion system. The researchers will utilize Medrad's latest technology to control more precisely the radioactive dose delivered during PET imaging procedures. By enabling the benefit of repeatable infusion of the prescribed fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) dose to all subjects in the study, the Intego system is a key element in the research.

"The research will explore the clinical viability of dynamic imaging with PET,” said Dr. Alfred Buck, from the University of Zurich. The University is a leading institution in dynamic PET research, and it has licensed its proprietary FDG delivery technology to Medrad for use in the Intego PET infusion system.

The Intego system automatically extracts a dose from a multi-dose vial and delivers it directly to the patient, virtually eliminating manual dose preparation and handling, and the corresponding radiation exposure to the technologist inherent in manual preparation. With the Intego system's dose-on-demand capability, the prescribed dose can be delivered when the patient and clinician are ready. This enables the clinician to respond easily and efficiently to schedule changes, patient delays, and add-on patients.

Innovative features, including real-time dose availability information, an integrated ionization chamber, and an optional weight-based dose calculation, allow the healthcare provider to customize more precisely each patient's dose. Safety features include a tungsten multi-dose vial shield, a fully lead-lined mobile cart, and an automated saline flush to remove residual FDG from the line after each infusion.

"Supporting this research with the University of Zurich is an exciting opportunity for us. We believe the Intego system can be a very important tool for advancing PET imaging in the clinical setting, leading to better patient management and clinical outcomes,” said Doug Descalzi, executive director, Medrad Molecular Imaging.

Medrad is a worldwide provider of medical devices and services that enable and enhance imaging and therapeutic procedures of the human body. For diagnostic imaging, Medrad's product range includes a line of vascular injection systems, magnetic resonance (MR) surface coils, and patient care products, and equipment services. The company also offers products used in vascular intervention.

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