The two PET scanners at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka (NHSL) and at Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama are currently out of operation due to a shortage of the necessary Fludeoxyglucose (FDG) substance, The Sunday Morning reliably learns. 

It is also learnt that a number of patients, including those in critical condition, are waiting in line to get the scans done in the absence of the required chemical to operate the machine.

As confirmed by Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Palitha Mahipala, the machines had gone out of operation two days ago. 

However, as learnt by The Sunday Morning, the machine at Apeksha Hospital had gone out of operation on several instances, both due to the lack of FDG substances and once due to a payment issue, as the supplier had demanded payment every two weeks.

Typically, around 10 PET scans are conducted weekly at the Maharagama facility and the NHSL conducts an equal number of PET scans weekly. 

A PET scan, or Positron Emission Tomography, is a nuclear medicine imaging test that involves the injection of a small amount of liquid radioactive material into the body. This procedure aids in diagnosing various diseases, including cancers, brain disorders, and heart disease.

The FDG substance, a crucial element in PET scans, comes at a significant cost, with approximately 10 vials amounting to nearly Rs. 1.2 million. The hospital’s weekly requirement is about 10 vials. 

FDG, upon injection, emits gamma rays detected by the PET scanner, generating detailed images illustrating the functioning of tissues and organs.

Although the current demand for consultant-suggested PET scans doesn’t create an extensive waiting list, the delay is causing inconvenience for patients. 

However, Dr. Mahipala told The Sunday Morning that the matter had been attended to and that necessary steps were being taken by officials.