A modified automatic dispensing system for PICs compatible radiopharmaceuticals

Objectives This study is related to an automated dispenser with a novel plug apparatus for radiopharmaceuticals’ filling. We have developed a completely automatic syringe filling process for dispensing PET & SPECT radiopharmaceuticals (such as Tl-201, Ga-67-citrate, In-111 and Ga-68-DOTATATE) in unit doses within syringes or in multi-dose vials compatible with PICs regulations. Especially it refers to a situation that hand contact with radiopharmaceuticals is avoided and exposure to radioactive materials is reduced for operators.

Methods The technical approaches include: a main unit with an activation mechanism to perform three-dimensional reciprocal movement and activate an injection needle to freely move in a predetermined space; a syringe rack located in the moving range of the injection needle by the main unit to accommodate a plural number of syringes, on each of which there is an injection hole with a novel plug apparatus; a drug pump with an injection needle to fill the radiopharmaceuticals into the syringe.

Results This modified dispensing system can be carried out in hot cells where manipulation of syringes and vials by tongs and manipulators. It is also suitable for bench top applications, laminar air flow cabinets or safety cabinets, and to dispense PET or SPECT radiopharmaceutical liquid from a reservoir to a previously filled syringe or dispense to vials in multiple aliquots. The total time to dispense a single dose from dispending needle positioning in the syringe to removing the needle is typically 20 to 25 seconds.

Conclusions A novel plug apparatus is employed to further enhance process reliability and precision. This modified dispensing system is specifically designed for high activity 511keV isotopes for PIC/s compatible radiopharmaceuticals and makes light work of the heavy syringe and vial shields that are difficult to manipulate by hand