Abstract
Objective: Multiple methods of preparing 99mTc Cardiolite® are routinely utilized. The most recent method available is the Recon-o-Stat™ which employs heat-pump technology. The Recon-o-Stat was compared to the microwave method with respect to the radiation dose to the preparer, radiochemical purity and the quality of myocardial perfusion images.
Methods: Twenty-five Cardiolite vials were prepared by each method. Thermoluminescent dosimeter ring badges were worn to determine extremity radiation dose during preparation. Radiochemical purity was performed immediately and when possible at 24 hr. Selected images were reviewed for quality in a randomized, blinded fashion by two board certified nuclear medicine physicians.
Results: Use of the Recon-o-Stat resulted in a 60% reduction in radiation dose to the preparer. The immediate Recon-o-Stat radiochemical purity was consistently above 90% but significantly lower than the microwave radiochemical purity. The 24-hr Recon-o-Stat radiochemical purity was occasionally <90% and significantly lower than the 24-hr microwave radiochemical purity. There was no difference in image quality between the highest microwave and the lowest Recon-o-Stat radiochemical purity preparations.
Conclusion: The Recon-o-Stat method can significantly reduce the annual extremity exposure to the preparer of Cardiolite without adversely affecting the image quality.
