Isotope shortage hits P.E.I. hospitals

The temporary shutdown of a nuclear reactor in Ontario that produces isotopes used in medical scans is causing delays for patients on P.E.I.

The reactor in Chalk River, run by Atomic Energy Canada, was shut down for maintenance more than two weeks ago. The shutdown is causing a shortage of isotopes for diagnostic imaging worldwide.

"Because the supply has shut down, we are in our last phase of the product that we have left," Jamie MacDonald, technical director of diagnostic imaging services for P.E.I., told CBC News Wednesday.

"Around 75 patients per week have nuclear medicine scans here on P.E.I., and of those this week, a total of 17 patients we will have to rebook, and a total of 18 patients for next week."

Patients waiting for procedures such as bone scans, cardiac studies and thyroid scans will be affected, MacDonald said. CT scans may be possible in emergency situations. The province hopes to know by the middle of next week when it may get another supply of the isotopes.

When a new supply does come in, extra bookings and evening appointments will be made to clear up the backlog, said MacDonald.