Patient Information

Treatment

Choosing to get treatment overseas can be a daunting task without a little help.  We have tried to simplify the process for those patients and caregivers who are interested in seeking treatment in Bad Berka.  The advice and recommendation presented here are compiled from many visit by different patients and caregivers.  On this page you will find all articles relating to the treatment process, you can also use the menu on left to go directly to a topic of interest.  If you have any suggestions or additions we are happy to hear from you, just click on this link and let us know.

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The first step in the process of receiving the PRRT is to give the patient a dose of 1,500 ml of an amino acid solution designed to protect the kidneys from the effects of the radiation. The amino acid infusion (Lysin HCL 5% plus 250 ml L-Argiin HCL 10% plus 250 ml NaCl) is administered through the IV tube that is placed in the patient's arm or hand (most common location). This solution is started about 45 minutes to an hour before the radioisotope is put into the circulation system via the same IV tube. Once the radioisotope is administered then more amino acid solution is given to the patient. In total the administration of the amino acid solution is done over a period of about 4 hours.

In addition, an anti-nausea medication is often

Following the initial dose of kidney protecting agent, the isotope solution is given by slow intravenous infusion through the IV tube, over a 20-minute time frame. This time may vary depending on the type of isotope used and necessary dosage. At that time blood pressure and pulse are regularly monitored.

There are a number of tests and scans that a patient can be asked to undergo as part of their evaluation for receiving PRRT. The exact order in which the patient takes these tests or scans may depend upon their specific medical condition or the need for the doctors to evaluate results in some order.

While the patient is at the Zentralklinik, it is customary for them to be given directions to find the department where tests or scans are performed. For Non-German speaking patients this can be a

Immediately following the therapy, whole body scans are conducted in the scanning room located on the Nuclear Medicine Ward. These scans are done at the half hour mark from the therapy, 24 hour mark, 48 hour mark and the 72 hour mark. These scan are done with a dual head gamma camera and typically take about 20 or 30 minutes each time. These scans are done to monitor isotope uptake in the tumors.

Typically if you are going through the PRRT and check into the Zentralklinik on a Sunday, then you will be discharged sometime on a Friday. On that last day you normally go through one last gamma scan on the Nuclear Ward and then get the FDG PET/CT scan following that. Those results need to be seen by Dr. Baum before you will have your final consultation.

The final consultation with Dr. Baum usually takes about 40-50 minutes. During this time, the preliminary results of the PRRT are explained

  1. Going Home
  2. At Home Follow-up
  3. Post Treatment Consultation At Discharge
  4. Payment for Treatment

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