Cornwall trust takes the magnetic approach to sentinel node biopsies

In recent years, hospitals across Europe have struggled with access to technetium-99, due to reactor supply issues and logistical difficulties. Endomag says a single-injection, non-radioactive lymphatic tracer called Magtrace can provide hospitals greater flexibility for sentinel node biopsies.

Magtrace, an iron oxide-based solution, is injected into the breast before migrating to the sentinel lymph nodes. Unlike technetium, it will be retained for up to a month, allowing hospitals to better plan injections to suit scheduling and patient needs.

Consultant radiologist Dr Miklos Barta at Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust has been using Magtrace for a number of years and explained how it has already enabled his team to remove the need for nuclear medicine altogether: “Due to logistical challenges and the unreliable isotope supply we were looking for an alternative solution. Patients often had to make a 30-minute journey to go to the breast unit prior to surgery to have the isotope injection. This adds to the anxiety of the patients, and complicates their journey and transport.

“Magtrace addresses these issues by offering more flexibility in scheduling, organising weekend and Monday lists, and simplifying the patient pathway.”

Picture: Magtrace is injected into the breast before migrating to the sentinel lymph nodes.

See the full report on page 25 of the September 2024 issue of RAD Magazine.