Wed, 26 Feb 2025

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 Cancer scans to be revolutionised by nuclear start-up

Mini reactors could be built in hospital basements, guaranteeing diagnosis can go-ahead.
British scientists have developed a new method to produce vital radioisotopes used in cancer scans, eliminating potential delays and interruptions in supply. The radioisotopes are currently produced abroad by ageing reactors that can shut down or experience faults, causing shortages. A team at Bristol's Astral Systems has found a way to produce the material on demand using nuclear fusion, rather than fission. This method is cheaper, with small plants costing £1m compared to £400m for new nuclear fission reactors. According to the Royal College of Radiologists, Britain gets 85% of its radioisotopes from six European reactors, five of which will retire by 2030. The current supply chain is described as "ageing and fragile". Dr Stephen Harden, a radiologist, said that even though patients needing urgent scans were seen on time, thousands of routine check-ups were delayed due to the shortage. Astral Systems' new technology uses fusion reactors to produce radioisotopes on demand, which can be built near hospitals for medical use. Consultant radiologist Dr Randeep Kulshrestha explained how these isotopes are used in cancer scans, injecting patients with a small amount of radioactivity that allows doctors to track the spread of cancer. The new method has the potential to "eliminate delays" in cancer treatments and provide a reliable supply of vital materials.
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