Abstract
Technegas is a carbon-based nanoparticle developed in Australia in 1984 and in widespread clinical use, including SPECT imaging, since 1986. While 81mKr offers the ideal ventilation properties of a true gas, Technegas is considered preferred in more than 60 countries for ventilation imaging, yet has limited adoption in the United States of America (USA/US). In March 2020, a new food and drug authority (FDA) application was lodged for Technegas and the impending approval warrants a detailed discussion of the technical aspects of the technology for those for whom the technology is new. Technegas is a simple yet versatile system for producing high quality 99mTc based ventilation studies. The design affords safety to patients and staff including consideration of radiation and biological risks. Technegas is the gold standard for ventilation studies for performing SPECT based V/Q studies in pulmonary embolism and a number of respiratory pathologies. When approved by the US FDA, Technegas will extend advantage to workflow, safety and study quality for departments who adopt the technology.
