Summary
Highlights
Scott Mildenberger, PET/CT supervisor, introduces nuclear medicine technology. This field involves injecting patients with radioactive materials, primarily radioactive sugar (FDG - fluorodeoxyglucose) for PET scans. Unlike CT, MRI, or ultrasound which focus on structures, PET/CT scans evaluate how molecules in the body function, often by observing where the sugar concentrates. This can help detect tumors, inflammation, infections, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and epilepsy.
Scott sought a science-oriented career and discovered nuclear medicine. Technical schools like SAIT in Alberta and BCIT in British Columbia offer programs in Western Canada. In Eastern Canada, universities like McMaster and Dalhousie offer degree programs. After completing the program, a national exam is required for certification. Scott also pursued CT and PET/CT certifications, noting that PET scan certifications are newer due to the recent increase in PET scan availability across Canada.
The field of PET/CT is rapidly expanding, with researchers developing new radioactive tracers beyond sugar. These new tracers, with over a thousand in development, aim to detect specific conditions like prostate cancer. A recently approved tracer in Canada can identify amyloid plaques in the brain, helping in earlier Alzheimer's diagnosis. Future advancements include combined PET and MRI scanners, indicating a bright and evolving future for this technology. Scott expresses his enjoyment of the job, highlighting the patient interaction and working with advanced equipment.