Ventilation/Perfusion PET/CT with Galligas and 68Ga-MAA for regional lung function assessment after pulmonary embolism
This research study is investigating a new type of lung scan called V/Q PET/CT. This scan uses special gases, including Galligas and 68Ga-MAA, to create detailed pictures of your lungs. The main aim is to see how well blood is flowing and air is moving in different parts of the lungs, especially after someone has experienced a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung). Doctors hope this new scanning method will help them better understand how these clots affect lung function and how much of the lung might be affected. The study is also looking at how this new scan compares to other common tests used to measure breathing, exercise ability, and overall quality of life.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is focused on improving how doctors understand and measure the impact of pulmonary embolism. A pulmonary embolism happens when a blood clot blocks an artery in the lungs, which can make it hard to breathe and reduce how well your lungs work. Currently, doctors use various methods to assess this, but this study introduces a new, more detailed scanning technique called V/Q PET/CT.
This special V/Q PET/CT scan uses tiny amounts of harmless radioactive gases – one you breathe in (like Galligas, similar to Technegas) and one that is injected (like 68Ga-MAA, similar to Pulmocis). These gases help the scanner create very clear images that show where air is going in your lungs (ventilation) and where blood is flowing (perfusion). By comparing these two, doctors can see areas where blood flow might be blocked, even if air is still getting there, giving a detailed picture of the problem.
The main thing doctors want to measure with this new scan is something called the 'pulmonary vascular obstruction index' (PVOI). This is a fancy way of saying how much of the lung's blood vessels are blocked. They want to see how accurate this new scan is at showing this obstruction and how it relates to other established ways of measuring lung health, such as breathing tests, how well you can exercise, and your quality of life. The ultimate goal is to see if this new scanning method can provide a clearer and more precise way to assess lung damage after a pulmonary embolism, potentially leading to better care in the future.
Key takeaways
- Investigating a new lung scan (V/Q PET/CT) for pulmonary embolism.
- Uses special gases to show air movement and blood flow in lungs.
- Aims to precisely measure the extent of blockages from clots.
- Compares the new scan to standard lung and exercise tests.
- Could lead to a better understanding and treatment of pulmonary embolism.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to both men and women who are at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit, meaning older adults can also take part if they meet other health criteria.
To be considered for this study, you would need to have had a pulmonary embolism in the past. Your doctors will review your medical history to make sure you're a good fit and that participating would be safe for you. This includes checking for any existing medical conditions that might interact with the study's procedures or radioactive materials.
It's important to remember that even if you meet the age and gender requirements, there might be other health-related reasons why this study isn't right for you. Your study doctor will discuss all of these details with you during a screening appointment.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you previously had a pulmonary embolism found by a doctor?
- Do you feel comfortable undergoing lung function and exercise tests?
- Are you able to attend clinic visits for scans and other assessments?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to join this study, your participation will involve several visits to a clinic or hospital over a period of time. The main part of the study includes having the special V/Q PET/CT lung scan using the investigational gases (Galligas and 68Ga-MAA). You will have a small amount of one gas to breathe in and a small amount of the other injected into a vein for the scan. You will also undergo a series of common medical tests to assess your lung function, such as breathing tests (like FVC and FEV), exercise tests (like walking for 6 minutes or using a special bike), and questionnaires about your symptoms and quality of life. Each visit will involve different assessments, and the study team will explain everything in detail beforehand. The total duration of your participation in the study has not been specified but typically involves an initial assessment, the scan, and follow-up tests over a set period.
Potential risks and benefits
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Common questions
What is a pulmonary embolism?
A pulmonary embolism is a serious condition where a blood clot gets stuck in an artery in your lungs, blocking blood flow.
What is a V/Q PET/CT scan?
It's a special type of scan that uses safe radioactive materials to show how well air moves and blood flows in your lungs. 'V' is for ventilation (air), and 'Q' is for perfusion (blood flow).
Will I have to take new medicine?
The study involves breathing in and having an injection of special radioactive gases for the scan, but it's not a new long-term medication you'd take daily.
How long will my participation last?
The detailed description of the study does not specify the total duration, but it typically involves several visits over a period of time for the scan and other tests.
Can I stop participating if I want to?
Yes, you can choose to leave the study at any time, for any reason, and it will not affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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