Real-Time Imaging of ¹⁷⁷Lu-Labeled Radiopharmaceutical Infusions with a Portable γ-Camera: Pilot Trial Results.

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Medicine
• Radiopharmaceutical Therapy
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Post-therapy SPECT/CT is recommended for ¹⁷⁷Lu-labeled radiopharmaceuticals.
• The intrinsic gamma-photon emission of ¹⁷⁷Lu suggests feasibility of real-time imaging during infusions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of real-time visualization of ¹⁷⁷Lu-labeled radiopharmaceutical infusions using a portable gamma-camera.
• To evaluate the potential for early detection of infusion-related complications.

Main Methods:

• A pilot feasibility study involving consecutive patients receiving ¹⁷⁷Lu-based radiopharmaceutical infusions.
• Dynamic image acquisition using a portable gamma-camera over 5-30 minutes.
• Standardized infusion protocols and imaging parameters (128x128 matrix, low-energy high-resolution collimator).

Main Results:

• Successful real-time imaging of six patients' infusions.
• ¹⁷⁷Lu-labeled radiopharmaceuticals remained confined to the venous system in all cases.
• No immediate complications or extravasation events were observed during imaging.

Conclusions:

• Dynamic, real-time gamma-camera imaging of ¹⁷⁷Lu-labeled radiopharmaceutical infusions is feasible.
• This imaging approach may aid in the early identification of infusion complications.
• Potential benefits include toxicity alleviation and radiopharmaceutical dose preservation.