Facilities and equipment
This section of the Novartis RLT Institute reviews the considerations in setting up the facilities and equipment required to provide radioligand therapy (RLT).
Design options
Hot lab and treatment room design options
The proximity of the hot lab to the treatment room is an important consideration in order to minimize radiation exposure and potential contamination risk. Short, dedicated routes that are away from high traffic areas like waiting rooms help to keep potential exposure and risk of contamination to a minimum.1,2
Hot labs and treatment rooms can be integrated (ie, adjacent, but separate) to reduce material transport or separated to enhance flexibility, but the overall facility workflow should always prioritize minimizing exposure risks while enhancing patient comfort and optimizing the care experience.3
The hot lab is essential for RLT administration and there are some important considerations for each layout.
Integrated layout (hot lab adjacent to treatment room)2,3
- Pros: Minimizes transportation of radioactive materials across the facility, reducing contamination risk and improving workflow efficiency
- Cons: Requires strategic placement within the facility to minimize radiation exposure to nearby rooms; may require shielding investment
Separate layout (hot lab and treatment room in separate areas)2,3
- Pros: Allows flexibility in positioning each room, which can reduce shielding requirements in other facility areas
- Cons: Requires transporting radioactive materials between rooms, which may increase risk of contamination and exposure
