Cancer Care Centre dealing with isotope shortage

In the wake of recent nuclear reactor shutdowns in other parts of the world, the Regional Cancer Care Centre is re-evaluating and prioritizing its patient needs regarding nuclear medicine.

The shutdown of a reactor in Europe has caused significant reductions in the amount of Technetium, a medical isotope used in diagnostic testing, for many forms of cancer. Cancer Centre vice-president Michael Power says as a result of the shortage, they are now offering patients clinical trials in Pet imaging, which uses a different type of isotope known as Flourine.
For procedures that still require Technetium, such as breast cancer biopsies, patients are being prioritized based on need.
He adds that the shortage of isotopes isn't an issue for cancer patients in the region at the moment.

Power adds they're currently raising funds for a new Cyclotron to go along with the Pet Scanner.