A new diagnostic procedure NaF PET/CT scan has begun to be performed at the Department of Nuclear Medicine and the PET Center of Acibadem Sistina Hospital.

Bone scanning with the new NаF PET/CT radioisotope is a highly sensitive, modern diagnostic method for bone diseases, especially for bone metastases detection. This method allows for a very precise assessment of the bone condition. It is used in modern medicine for early detection of various lesions, especially in patients with suspected bone metastases or other diseases of the bone system.

The method is based on administering a small amount of radiopharmaceutical (sodium fluoride – F18) that is distributed in the bones following the administration. At sites of increased activity in the bone tissue, a signal appears and it is detected by the device. By combining PET (which presents the functional activity) and CT (which provides a detailed anatomical image), a complete and precise insight into the bone system is obtained.

NaF PET/CT plays an important role in: detecting bone metastases in malignant diseases, assessing indefinite bone pain, monitoring the therapy effect, additional evaluation when other diagnostic methods do not provide a clear answer.

Compared to classical skeletal scintigraphy, this method provides higher sensitivity and better resolution, which allows lesions of an earlier stadium to be detected.

The procedure is simple and well tolerated. Upon intravenous administration of the radiopharmaceutical, a certain period of time is waited (30 to 60 minutes), followed by a short whole-body scan (about 20 minutes). No special preparation is required, and patients can continue with their usual activities after the examination.

NaF PET/CT is an important tool in modern diagnostics, providing timely detection of bone lesions and better planning of the further treatment.