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Giammarile F, Knoll P, Kunikowska J, Paez D, Estrada Lobato E, Mikhail-Lette M, Wahl R, Holmberg O, Abdel-Wahab M, Scott AM, Delgado Bolton RC. Guardians of precision: advancing radiation protection, safety, and quality systems in nuclear medicine. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2024; 51:1498-1505. [PMID: 38319322 PMCID: PMC11043166 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-024-06633-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the rapidly evolving field of nuclear medicine, the paramount importance of radiation protection, safety, and quality systems cannot be overstated. This document provides a comprehensive analysis of the intricate regulatory frameworks and guidelines, meticulously crafted and updated by national and international regulatory bodies to ensure the utmost safety and efficiency in the practice of nuclear medicine. METHODS We explore the dynamic nature of these regulations, emphasizing their adaptability in accommodating technological advancements and the integration of nuclear medicine with other medical and scientific disciplines. RESULTS Audits, both internal and external, are spotlighted for their pivotal role in assessing and ensuring compliance with established standards, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and excellence. We delve into the significant contributions of entities like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and relevant professional societies in offering universally applicable guidelines that amalgamate the latest in scientific research, ethical considerations, and practical applicability. CONCLUSIONS The document underscores the essence of international collaborations in pooling expertise, resources, and insights, fostering a global community of practice where knowledge and innovations are shared. Readers will gain an in-depth understanding of the practical applications, challenges, and opportunities presented by these regulatory frameworks and audit processes. The ultimate goal is to inspire and inform ongoing efforts to enhance safety, quality, and effectiveness in nuclear medicine globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Giammarile
- Department of Nuclear Science and Applications, Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Imaging Section, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Peter Knoll
- Department of Nuclear Science and Applications, Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Imaging Section, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jolanta Kunikowska
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Diana Paez
- Department of Nuclear Science and Applications, Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Imaging Section, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Enrique Estrada Lobato
- Department of Nuclear Science and Applications, Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Imaging Section, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Miriam Mikhail-Lette
- Department of Nuclear Science and Applications, Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Imaging Section, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Richard Wahl
- Washington University in St Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, USA
- The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Ola Holmberg
- Department of Nuclear Safety and Security, Radiation Safety and Monitoring Section, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - May Abdel-Wahab
- Department of Nuclear Science and Applications, Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Imaging Section, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andrew M Scott
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Therapy, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Roberto C Delgado Bolton
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging (Radiology) and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital San Pedro and Centre for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), La Rioja, Logroño, Spain
- Servicio Cántabro de Salud, Santander, Spain
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