The University Medical City in Muscat, represented by the Radiology and Nuclear Medicine department at Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Center (SQCCCRC), has recently completed the first Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor (FAPI) PET/CT studies in the Sultanate of Oman. This groundbreaking technique involves injecting patients with the radiopharmaceutical FAPI, targeting fibroblast activation protein found in cancer-associated fibroblasts, and then imaging them in a PET/CT scan for more precise tumor imaging. The FAPI PET/CT studies also show promising applications in identifying fibrotic diseases, such as cardiac fibrosis and chronic inflammatory conditions, expanding its diagnostic capabilities.
Dr. Khulood Salim Al Riyami, Nuclear Medicine Consultant and Section Head at SQCCCRC, expressed satisfaction with the high-quality results of the FAPI PET/CT studies, from radiopharmaceutical preparation to accurate biodistribution during imaging. She highlighted the potential of FAPI PET/CT in oncology to provide detailed insights into tumor biology, improve cancer diagnosis and staging accuracy, enhance cancerous tissue detection, and aid in treatment planning, opening doors for future theranostics applications.
Dr. Rashid Fu’ad Al Sukaiti, Senior Consultant Radiologist and Head of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department at SQCCCRC, emphasized the University Medical City’s commitment to offering cutting-edge services to patients in Oman in the near future. This will further enhance their capabilities in providing comprehensive and state-of-the-art healthcare, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for advanced diagnostics and ensuring they receive top-tier care locally.
Dr. Khalid Al Baimani, In-charge of SQCCCRC, highlighted the importance of this pioneering study in showcasing the University Medical City and SQCCCRC’s dedication to innovation and staying abreast of the latest global medical advancements. Under the visionary leadership of UMC, the center is committed to continuous excellence in healthcare services and patient care.
The successful completion of the FAPI PET/CT studies at SQCCCRC represents a significant milestone in medical imaging in Oman. The cutting-edge technique offers a more precise and detailed imaging of tumors, as well as potential applications in identifying fibrotic diseases. This development showcases the commitment of UMC and SQCCCRC to providing state-of-the-art healthcare services and staying at the forefront of medical advancements.
In conclusion, the completion of the first FAPI PET/CT studies at SQCCCRC marks a major achievement for medical imaging in Oman. The technique has promising applications in oncology and the identification of fibrotic diseases, offering more precise imaging and diagnostic capabilities. This milestone reflects the commitment of UMC and SQCCCRC to providing top-tier healthcare services and remaining at the forefront of medical innovation.
