We are advised that the supply of Molybdenum 99 to the United Kingdom during July 2010 is likely to be severely constrained by the reduction in reactor capacity. This is the continuing result of the planned and unplanned repairs and maintenance of a number of  reactors.
Early advice indicates that all departments will experience a shortfall in supply and it is possible that some departments will receive less than 50% of their requested activity to maintain a full clinical service.
 
This was discussed by BNMS Council on 29 June and endorsed by Dr Erika Denton, National Clinical Lead for Diagnostic Imaging, Department of Health.

Where a department has a significant shortfall it is recommended that priority is given to the following studies: 
1.Sentinel lymph nodes
2.Paediatric studies
3.Studies in which other imaging modalities are specifically contraindicated eg patients in renal failure where i.v. contrast may not be given for CT or MR
4.Clinically urgency as determined by discussion between managing clinicians.

The previous advice on optimising Tc-99m usage and the use of Tl-201 for cardiac imaging is available on the website here 
 
We would strongly encourage you to inform us weekly of your supply and patient activity during this shortage. This should be through the generator update form here.

We are expecting that the situation will improve towards the end of July and that supplies will be restored from Chalk River later this year.

BNMS  2 July 2010

Please address any further enquiries to one of the following
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J Croasdale 

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