Radiopharmaceutical localization of tumor, inflammatory process or distribution of radiopharmaceutical agent(s) (includes vascular flow and blood pool imaging, when performed); planar, whole body, single day imaging
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Radiopharmaceutical Localization of Tumor, Inflammatory Process, or Distribution of Radiopharmaceutical Agent(s) - Planar, Whole Body, Single Day Imaging
Summary
This medical imaging procedure uses small amounts of radioactive material (radiopharmaceutical agents) to detect and visualize tumors, areas of inflammation, or the distribution of the agents within the body. The imaging can cover the entire body and is generally completed within a single day.
Purpose
The procedure helps diagnose and locate tumors, identify inflammatory processes, and evaluate how radiopharmaceutical agents are distributed in the body. It provides critical information for determining the presence and extent of disease, helping to guide treatment decisions.
Indications
- Suspected or confirmed tumors
- Inflammatory diseases
- Need for detailed mapping of radiopharmaceutical distribution in the body
- Assessment of vascular flow and blood pool
- Unexplained pain or swelling
Preparation
- Patients may be advised to hydrate well before the test.
- Some medications might need to be paused; the healthcare provider will guide on which ones.
- Fasting is usually not required, but following specific dietary instructions could be necessary.
Procedure Description
- Injection: The patient receives an injection of radiopharmaceutical agent into a vein.
- Circulation Time: The agent circulates through the body, typically taking 30-60 minutes.
- Imaging: The patient lies still on a table while a special camera (gamma camera) captures images of their entire body in a planar view.
- Additional Images: Additional images may be required to focus on specific areas of concern.
Tools & Equipment:
- Gamma camera
- Radiopharmaceutical agents
Anesthesia or Sedation:
- Generally, anesthesia or sedation is not needed.
Duration
The entire procedure, including preparation and imaging, usually takes about 2 to 4 hours.
Setting
The procedure is typically performed in a hospital's nuclear medicine department or an outpatient imaging clinic.
Personnel
- Nuclear medicine technologists
- Radiologists (nuclear medicine specialists)
- Nurses and medical assistants
Risks and Complications
- Exposure to low levels of radiation
- Allergic reactions to the radiopharmaceutical agent (rare)
- Mild discomfort at the injection site
Benefits
- Non-invasive, with minimal discomfort
- High specificity in identifying abnormalities
- Results are available relatively quickly, often within the same day
Recovery
- Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
- Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the radioactive material.
- Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results and plan further treatment.
Alternatives
- CT scans or MRI for detailed anatomical images
- PET scans for metabolic information
- Ultrasound for certain types of soft tissue imaging
Pros and Cons of Alternatives:
- CT/MRI: High anatomical detail but may not show functional information.
- PET Scans: Functional imaging but usually not whole-body in one scan.
- Ultrasound: Real-time imaging but limited in scope and detail compared to nuclear medicine.
Patient Experience
- During the injection, a pinprick sensation may be felt.
- The imaging itself is painless, but staying still for extended periods might be uncomfortable for some.
- Mild radiotracer taste or metallic taste might occur.
- Post-procedure, patients might not feel different but are advised to hydrate well to clear the tracer.