by
Gus Iversen, Editor in Chief | October 22, 2024
The High Flux Reactor (Credit: Wikimedia Commons)
A delay in the restart of the High Flux Reactor (HFR) in the Netherlands has raised concerns about potential disruptions in the supply of molybdenum-99 (Mo-99), a critical isotope used to produce technetium-99m (Tc-99m), the workhorse radioisotope used in most SPECT imaging exams.
According to numerous organizations, the HFR reactor, originally scheduled to restart on October 10, has faced technical setbacks. These issues, related to the qualification of materials, are still undergoing testing, making it uncertain when the reactor will become operational again.
According to the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC), a reactor inspection determined that a previously identified pipe deformation
must be corrected immediately, rather than as a planned fix scheduled for the December 2024 maintenance period. NRG, the operator of the reactor, has not announced a start date; however, the fix will likely take a few weeks to complete.
Unfortunately, this necessary fix coincides with the planned maintenance periods of several other reactors, and it appears that schedules cannot be adjusted.
Nuclear Medicine Europe (NMEU) anticipates a
significant impact on the supply of molybdenum-99 (Mo-99), and anticipates shortages could affect up to 40% of the usual supply, depending on geographic region. Some areas may experience minimal disruption, while the impact may be more severe in others.
To mitigate the effects of the delay, NMEU and ASNC both advise healthcare providers to coordinate with Tc-99m generator suppliers and consider alternative imaging methods if needed.
According to the SNMMI, supply issues are
expected to persist until November.