Scintigraphie à l’OctréoScan® : aspects pratiques. Le point de vue du manipulateur

Evaluation of neuroendocrine tumors extent comprises a somatostatin receptor scintigraphy with OctréoScan^®. This examination begins with the radiopharmaceutical preparation and its quality control (dose, visual appearance, radiochemical purity, pH). The radiopharmaceutical is administered intravenously at a slow rate with respect of the contra-indications and recommendations. The patient's good respect of low residue diet and digestive preparations is essential for a good imaging quality. In addition, the technologist's psychological role (particularly for people suffering from claustrophobia) and adequate procedures must be taken into account. Several days are necessary to perform the examination that comprises whole body and planar (thoracic and abdominal) views, combined SPECT-CT imaging. This hybrid modality using fused images allows a good anatomical localisation of focal areas of increased uptake even in case of faint uptake. Some false-positive can be avoided (colonic stasis, gall bladder). SPECT-CT contribution to the diagnosis is certain.