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- Talk
- 23/09/2021
- UK
Diagnostic Update: Beyond Hot Spots – Nuclear Medicine & Molecular Imaging Innovations in MSK Infection Diagnostics
Description
In this insightful talk, Dr. Zia Saad discusses the specialty of nuclear medicine and its crucial role in modern diagnostic and therapeutic applications. He begins with a personal anecdote from his time as a general surgeon, emphasizing the limited knowledge many have about nuclear medicine, often confusing it with unclear medicine rather than recognizing its capabilities in diagnosis and treatment through the use of radioisotopes.
Dr. Saad highlights the principle of theranostics, which focuses on making invisible pathologies visible, thereby enabling earlier detection of diseases at the molecular level before any anatomical changes occur. He underscores the importance of understanding the physiological differences that nuclear medicine provides, particularly in diagnosing musculoskeletal infections.
The presentation delves into the evolution of nuclear medicine, including the emergence of the three-phase bone scan and its significance in identifying infections and other conditions. He discusses technological advancements such as SPECT/CT and PET/CT imaging, illustrating their effectiveness with case studies that showcase the diagnostic prowess of nuclear medicine.
Dr. Saad explains the importance of various tracers and imaging modalities in diagnostic procedures, elaborating on their use in identifying active infections and bone viability. He emphasizes the need for collaboration between nuclear medicine physicians and other medical professionals to ensure accurate diagnostics and treatment planning.
The presentation concludes with a call for increased understanding of nuclear medicine as a distinct specialty, urging colleagues to consult with nuclear medicine physicians rather than radiologists for optimal patient care. The audience is left with a renewed appreciation for nuclear medicine's contributions to healthcare.