Isotope Shortage Unlikely
In light of issues with isotope production secondary to the temporary closure of a nuclear reactor in Canada, a number of concerns about the availability of isotopes for nuclear medicine systems were brought to light. An update about the situation was posted by Health Imaging.
A recent statement by the FDA suggests that a reduction in the availability of isotopes is not anticipated in the near future. The shortage previously experienced after the reactor closed at the Canada’s National Research Universal is now over. The shortage was discontinued shortly after the reactor re-opened.
The Canadian legislature forced re-opening of the facility in mid-December. The facility reports that new isotopes will be available shortly. Details about the legislation was previously posted by HospitalBuyer.
The organization that oversees the facility, Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL) reports that the reactor is safe. The site was originally closed secondary to concerns about safety issues.
There are currently no facilities in the United States that produce these isotopes for nuclear imaging. Additional isotopes, however, are acquired from both the Nuclear Reactor Corporation of South Africa and Belgian Institut National des Radioelements.
A U.S.-based source of isotopes is in the works. The Advanced Medical Isotope Corporation (AMIC) is shortening their time frame for the availability of their linear accelerator. The company reports that they expect isotope production by early Spring 2008.
January 14, 2008 Related topics: Imaging, Diagnostic, Nuclear Medicine