Maintaining stable synthesis of F-18 FDG by analization and adjustment of consumption factors

Objectives The production efficiency of F-18 FDG (FDG) is very important. We investigated the possible factors resulting unstable synthesis yield of FDG through the analization of supplies in production and try to maintain the stable synthesis by adjustment the factors.

Methods Supplies investigated in this study were purchased and used from January to December,2008. The differences of total FDG synthesis in this period were investigated. The analyzed factors are FDG kits (kit) in different Lot numbers, capacity of C-18 cartridge in each kit, kinds of manufacture of O-18 and reagent.

Results The synthesis yield showed variability up to 18.2% between the kits purchased in different months. The capacity of C-18 cartridge in each kit influenced the result and the deviation of yield between each cartridge was about 18-20%. Especially, when the cartridge was defective or the full capacity was less than 3.08g, total synthesis yield was low. When we adjust the capacity to 3.08g, total synthesis yield could be maintained to 68-70%. Kinds of manufactures of O-18 and reagent didn't make differences on result.

Conclusions Among synthetic supplies, the capacity of C-18 cartridge in each kit affect the total F-18 FDG production. We can maintain stable production by adjustment the capacity of C-18 cartridge to 3.08g.