Name of the Procedure:

Indium in-111 Capromab Pendetide Scan, also known as ProstaScint Scan.

Summary

An Indium in-111 capromab pendetide scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to detect prostate cancer spread. It involves injecting a small amount of a radioactive tracer into the bloodstream and taking special images to see if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Purpose

This procedure is primarily used to:

• Detect metastatic prostate cancer.
• Monitor the effectiveness of prostate cancer treatments.
• Assist in staging prostate cancer to inform treatment planning.

Indications

The scan may be indicated for:

• Patients diagnosed with prostate cancer.
• Individuals showing elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels after treatment.
• Patients where previous imaging tests were inconclusive.

Preparation

• Fasting is usually not required.
• Patients should inform their doctor about all medications they are taking.
• A full bladder may be needed for clearer imaging, so patients might be instructed to drink water beforehand.
• Allergic history, especially to contrast dyes or radioisotopes, should be discussed with the doctor.

Procedure Description

1. Injection: A small dose (up to 10 millicuries) of Indium in-111 capromab pendetide is injected intravenously.
2. Delay: There is a waiting period, typically 3-5 days, to allow the tracer to circulate and bind to prostate cancer cells.
3. Imaging: The patient undergoes imaging using a gamma camera. Multiple images are taken to detect areas where the tracer has accumulated.
4. Analysis: A radiologist analyzes the images to identify potential spread of cancer.

Duration

The injection takes a few minutes, while the imaging session usually lasts 1-2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in a hospital's nuclear medicine department or an outpatient diagnostic imaging center.

Personnel

• Nuclear medicine physician or radiologist.
• Nuclear medicine technologist.
• Nurses may assist with the procedure.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Mild discomfort at the injection site, slight allergic reactions.
• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions, radiation exposure risks, though minimal.

Benefits

• Accurately identifies the spread of prostate cancer.
• Aids in better treatment planning and monitoring.
• Non-invasive with minimal side effects.

Recovery

• Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after the scan.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the tracer.
• Follow-up appointments might be scheduled to discuss the results.

Alternatives

• Other Imaging Tests: MRI, CT scan, or PET scan may be alternatives.
• Pros and Cons:
  • MRI/CT: No radiation but may not be as sensitive for certain cancer detections.
  • PET: Uses different tracers and may provide additional information.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Generally painless, minor discomfort from the injection.
• After the procedure: Most patients experience minimal side effects; any discomfort at the injection site typically resolves quickly.