SEJARAH KEDOKTERAN NUKLIR 3: Growth of Diagnostic Techniques and Therapies (1950-1970)

The 1950s and 1960s marked a transformative era in nuclear medicine, characterised by significant advancements in diagnostic imaging technologies and the introduction of new radionuclides that enhanced imaging capabilities.

First Diagnostic Scans (1950s)

• Emergence of Radionuclide Imaging: In the 1950s, the first diagnostic scans using radionuclides were performed, marking a pivotal moment in medical imaging. These scans utilised radioactive isotopes to visualise internal organs and structures.
• Brain and Liver Scans: Early applications included brain and liver scans. These scans provided unprecedented insights into the functioning of these organs, allowing for the visualisation of abnormalities and diseases that were previously difficult to diagnose non-invasively.

Invention of the Gamma Camera (1957)

• Hal Anger’s Innovation: The gamma camera, developed by Hal Anger in 1957, was a revolutionary invention in the field of nuclear medicine. Unlike earlier detectors, the gamma camera could produce detailed images of the distribution of radioactivity in the body.
• Impact on Nuclear Imaging: This technology enabled more precise and comprehensive imaging, facilitating the diagnosis of various conditions. Its ability to create images from gamma rays emitted by radionuclides within the body opened new possibilities in diagnostics, from cancer detection to cardiac imaging.

Technetium-99m (1960s)

• Introduction of Technetium-99m: The 1960s witnessed the introduction of Technetium-99m (Tc-99m) in nuclear medicine. Tc-99m quickly became a cornerstone in diagnostic imaging due to its ideal physical and chemical properties.
• Advantages and Applications: Tc-99m has a short half-life, emits gamma rays suitable for imaging, and can be incorporated into various compounds to target different organs and systems. This versatility made it highly valuable for a wide range of diagnostic procedures, including bone scans, cardiac stress tests, and cancer detection

SUMBER: https://openmedscience.com/history-of-nuclear-medicine-a-century-of-innovation-and-impact/