3D Cardiac PET Imaging System & RUBIDIUM 82

Each mobile unit is equipped with a state-of-the-art 3D PET-CT all digital Imaging System, an Infusion Cart, and the Rubidium 82 generator.

Rubidium-82 | Cardiac PET Imaging

The Rubidium-82 generator is a closed system that produces the radiotracer for intravenous administration. Rubidium-82 generator includes a self-contained cart that houses a shield for the generator, on-board support for electronics, and a waste container. The infusion tubing system is automated for accurate patient dosage with minimal operator interface. Additionally, the system is lead lined and weighs 650 pounds. This combination creates the least amount of radiation exposure possible to your patient, as well as our nuclear medicine technologists.

The generator that produces the isotope is produced on a per-need basis, and is replaced every 28, 35, 42, or 49 days, in compliance with the regulations regarding radioactive material dictated by the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Rubidium-82 generator is a positron emitting radiotracer with a physical half-life of 75 seconds. Following intravenous administration, the the heart muscle rapidly takes up the 20mCi dose of Rb-82. The isotope activity displays is noted in the heart within the first minute after injection. The 3D cardiac PET imaging system takes 3D images of Rb-82 uptake by the heart. The patient is then administered Lexiscan, a pharmacological stress agent, and the procedure is repeated. Further analysis of these cardiac images helps to identify the location, severity, and extent of reduced blood flow to the heart muscle (ischemia).

Myocardial perfusion imaging with Rubidium-82 is the diagnostic tool of choice in nuclear cardiology. The short half-life of Rb-82 leaves the patient with minimal radiation exposure and the cardiac PET imaging scan time is only 25-35 minutes. The increased benefits over comparable isotopes also include 24/7 availability, excellent image quality regardless of patient body habitus, higher diagnostic accuracy, reduced occupational radiation exposure to staff, and the ability to image peak stress left ventricular function.

 

For a detailed look at the advantages of Rb-82 generator cardiac PET imaging, click here.

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