ABSTRACT
Radiopharmaceuticals are commonly used in children in nuclear medicine. Because of physiological differences in growing children and their radiosensitivity, precautions must be taken throughout the medication use process. The aim of this work is to propose recommendations, under the aegis of the Société française de radiopharmacie (SoFRa), for each subsystem of the process, in order to ensure the safety of pediatric patients. Furthermore, an analysis of two surveys on diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals dosage used in different nuclear medicine departments in France is detailed. Recommendations for therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals are also provided. Specificities of the preparation for pediatric patients are discussed through the example of the radiopharmaceuticals for lung perfusion scintigraphy. The preparation of individual dose and administration are also described. In nuclear medicine, radiopharmacist's expertise is essential for patient safety. A multidisciplinary approach is necessary to secure pediatric radiopharmaceutical use process.
Subject(s)
Pediatrics , Radiopharmaceuticals , Child , France , HumansABSTRACT
We analysed 1438 deliveries by caesarean section (CS) with regard to urological complications such as urological infections and urinary tract injuries. There were five accidental cystotomies, but no ureteral injury and no urogenital fistula. Serious urological complications are rare and further complications, such as urogenital fistulae and urosepsis, can be avoided if the injury is recognised and repaired properly during the operation. On the other hand, significant bacteriuria after CS is common. It was found in > 11% of the patients, most probably because of routine catheterization. Symptomatic urinary tract infection (UTI) must be treated as soon as symptoms appear, but routine antibiotic prophylaxis is not recommended.
