Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Fluciclovine F-18 PET Scan
Technical Term: Fluciclovine F-18, diagnostic, 1 millicurie (HCPCS Code: A9588)

Summary

This procedure involves using a radioactive tracer, Fluciclovine F-18, to create detailed images of the body through a PET scan. It helps identify abnormal metabolic activity, often used in the detection and management of certain cancers.

Purpose

Fluciclovine F-18 PET scans are primarily used to:

• Detect recurrent prostate cancer.
• Locate cancer cells that may not be visible with other imaging methods. Expected outcomes include the accurate identification of cancerous cells, which guides further treatment.

Indications

This procedure is indicated for:

• Men with suspected recurrent prostate cancer.
• Elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels post-treatment.
• Patients needing precise imaging for treatment planning.

Preparation

Patients may be instructed to:

• Fast for a specified period (usually a few hours) before the procedure.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours prior.
• Inform the doctor of any medications being taken. Some diagnostic tests, like blood work, might be required to ensure readiness.

Procedure Description

1. Administration: The patient receives an intravenous injection of Fluciclovine F-18.
2. Imaging: After a brief waiting period to allow the tracer to distribute, the patient lies on a table that slides into the PET scanner.
3. Scan: The scanner detects the radiation emitted by the tracer, creating detailed images of the body's internal structures. No anesthesia or sedation is generally required. The patient needs to stay still during the scan.

Duration

The entire process, including preparation, injection, waiting, and scanning, usually takes about 1-2 hours.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in:

• Specialized imaging centers.
• Hospital radiology departments.
• Outpatient clinics with PET scan capabilities.

Personnel

The procedure involves:

• Nuclear medicine technologists who administer the tracer and operate the scanner.
• Radiologists who interpret the images.
• A healthcare provider who reviews results and discusses further steps.

Risks and Complications

Common risks include:

• Mild discomfort or pain at the injection site.
• Allergic reactions to the tracer (very rare). Possible complications are minimal due to the low radiation dose, but radiation exposure is a general concern in all PET scans.

Benefits

The benefits include:

• High accuracy in detecting recurrent cancer.
• Non-invasive and relatively quick process. Results are typically available within a few days, aiding rapid treatment planning.

Recovery

Post-procedure instructions are minimal:

• Resume normal activities immediately.
• Drink plenty of water to help flush the tracer from the body. No significant downtime or recovery period is expected.

Alternatives

Other imaging options include:

• CT scans.
• MRI.
• Traditional bone scans. These alternatives may lack the specificity and sensitivity of Fluciclovine F-18 PET scans.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients might feel:

• A mild sting from the injection.
• Minor discomfort from lying still during the scan. Pain management is generally unnecessary, as the procedure is not typically painful. Comfort measures, such as pillows or blankets, are provided to ensure patient ease.

Patients typically return to their normal routines immediately after the procedure, with minimal restrictions.