Infusion procedure for enhancing image quality
Inventors
Assignees
Publication Number
US-11648343-B2
Publication Date
2023-05-16
Expiration Date
2039-10-23
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Abstract
Disclosed are methods of radioisotope infusion comprising infusing saline comprising a diagnostic dose of a radioisotope, and delivering a pre-measured volume of push saline. The disclosed methods confer improved image quality with low background noise, higher signal to noise ratio (SNR) and higher contrast to noise ratio (CNR), leading to better diagnosis and thus eliminating the need of repeating the infusion and imaging which in turn reduces exposure of a patient to radiation.
Core Innovation
The invention disclosed pertains to methods of radioisotope infusion involving the infusion of saline containing a diagnostic dose of a radioisotope followed by delivery of a pre-measured volume of push saline. The aim is to enhance image quality by reducing background noise, increasing signal to noise ratio (SNR) and contrast to noise ratio (CNR), thereby improving diagnosis and reducing the necessity for repeated infusion and imaging that increases patient radiation exposure.
The problem being solved arises from the limitations of current Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging techniques. The use of ultra-short half-life tracers infused over an extended period degrades image quality. Existing infusion systems have not addressed issues related to background noise, SNR, CNR, or other image quality concerns associated with conventional nuclear medicine imaging that uses radioactive contrast agents.
Disclosed methods include using a system with a controller, infusion line, and pump to infuse a diagnostic dose of radioisotope-containing saline into a subject’s peripheral vein at a controlled flow rate, followed by delivering a pre-measured volume of push saline at a flow rate equal to or higher than the initial infusion rate. This process effectively pushes residual radioisotope into the target area, improving image quality metrics without increasing the total radioisotope dose administered.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes two main independent claims covering methods of radioisotope infusion to a subject and methods for obtaining diagnostic images of a subject's heart using specific infusion protocols.
Method of radioisotope infusion with controlled flow rates and push saline
A method comprising infusing a volume of saline containing a diagnostic radioisotope dose into a peripheral vein at a first flow rate about 5 mL/min to about 60 mL/min, followed by delivering a pre-measured volume of push saline at a second flow rate about 5 mL/min to 60 mL/min, where the second flow rate is equal to or higher than the first flow rate.
Method for obtaining diagnostic heart images with enhanced infusion protocol
A method including infusion of radioisotope-containing saline into a peripheral vein at a first flow rate about 5 to 60 mL/min, delivering a pre-measured push saline volume at a second flow rate equal to or higher than the first flow rate, and obtaining diagnostic images of the subject’s heart using the radioisotope as an imaging agent.
The claims focus on inventive infusion protocols involving controlled flow rates for radioactive saline and subsequent push saline delivery to improve diagnostic imaging quality and efficiency.
Stated Advantages
Improved image quality with lower background noise, higher signal to noise ratio (SNR), and higher contrast to noise ratio (CNR).
Reduction in the need for repeated infusion and imaging procedures, thereby reducing patient exposure to radiation.
Increase in the number of image counts and enhanced myocardial uptake factor, contributing to better diagnostic outcomes.
Reduction in venous return transit time, enabling quicker delivery of radioisotope to target sites.
Capability to achieve higher image quality without increasing the total diagnostic dose of radioisotope.
Documented Applications
Use in Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging of myocardial perfusion and blood flow.
Obtaining diagnostic images of a subject’s heart using radioisotope contrast agents.
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