Clinical Presentation
A technologist performing a myocardial perfusion scan spills 25 mCi of Tc99m-MIBI on the floor of the treadmill room. What should be done next?
Differential Diagnosis
Is this a major or a minor spill, and which of the following needs to be done?
• Minor spill—prevent the spread of contamination and begin cleanup: Correct, see discussion below.
• Minor spill—get another dose of radiotracer and proceed with the exam: Incorrect.
• Major spill—leave the room and notify the Nuclear Regulatory Commission: Incorrect.
• The above example would be considered a minor spill.
Essential Facts
• Threshold levels for major versus minor spill:
• Tc99m: 100 mCi
• Tl201: 100 mCi
• Ga67: 10 mCi
• In111: 10 mCi
• I131: 1 mCi
• Before licensed materials are used, a radiation protection plan must be in place that outlines the procedures that will be followed in case of a spill.
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