Name of the Procedure:

Injection Procedure for Radiopharmaceutical Localization by Non-Imaging Probe Study, Intravenous (Eg, Parathyroid Adenoma)

Summary

This procedure involves the injection of a radiopharmaceutical agent into the bloodstream to localize abnormal glands, such as a parathyroid adenoma, using a non-imaging probe. This technique helps doctors identify and plan the removal of abnormal tissue.

Purpose

This procedure is used to diagnose and localize abnormal parathyroid glands, which may be causing hormonal imbalances. The goal is to provide precise information for surgical planning or targeted treatments.

Indications

It is indicated for patients who have symptoms of hyperparathyroidism, such as high calcium levels in the blood, kidney stones, or bone loss, and when non-imaging probe localization is needed for surgical planning.

Preparation

• The patient may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Certain medications may need to be adjusted or paused.
• Blood tests and imaging studies such as an ultrasound or SPECT scan may be required beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. A small intravenous (IV) line is placed in the patient's arm.
2. The radiopharmaceutical agent is injected through the IV line.
3. The patient may need to wait for a short period while the agent circulates and concentrates in the target tissues.
4. Using a handheld non-imaging probe, the doctor scans the suspected area to detect areas of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake.
5. The probe helps pinpoint the exact location of the abnormal tissue.

Anesthesia or sedation is rarely needed as the procedure is minimally invasive.

Duration

The entire process typically takes about 1-2 hours, including preparation time.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a nuclear medicine department in a hospital or outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• A nuclear medicine physician or radiologist performs the procedure.
• A technologist may assist with the preparation and scanning.
• Nursing staff may be involved in patient care and monitoring.

Risks and Complications

• Minor risks include discomfort at the injection site or mild allergic reactions to the radiopharmaceutical.
• Rare complications can include an infection at the IV site or an adverse reaction to the radiopharmaceutical.

Benefits

• Provides accurate localization of abnormal parathyroid tissue.
• Can help avoid more invasive diagnostic methods.
• Facilitates more effective and targeted surgical treatment.

Recovery

• Most patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.
• Patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the radiopharmaceutical from their system.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results and treatment plans.

Alternatives

• Traditional imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI.
• Exploratory surgery without prior localization, which may be more invasive.
• Pros of the injection procedure include increased accuracy and less invasiveness; cons may include exposure to radioactive material.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel a brief sting or discomfort during the IV insertion.
• There is typically no pain during the scanning process.
• Overall, the procedure is well-tolerated and involves minimal discomfort. Pain management and comfort measures will be available if needed.