Evaluating Late Phase 18FDG PET-CT Imaging for Detecting Spread in Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of late-phase 18FDG PET-CT imaging to improve lymph node staging in patients with muscle-invasive bladder tumor MIBT at stage 63pT2. This study aims to show whether delayed PET images taken 2.5 hours after radiotracer injection offer better sensitivity compared to the standard images taken at 1 hour. The assessment focuses on areas around the right and left iliac lymph nodes to guide treatment decisions for these patients. Participants will undergo 18FDG PET-CT scans in two phases the first phase involves a standard scan from head to mid-thigh at 1 hour after injection of the radiotracer and a diuretic, with a CT scan for anatomical details. The second phase consists of additional abdomino-pelvic scans at 2.5 hours post-injection with a low-dose CT scan for correction purposes. Patients will empty their bladder before each scan phase to improve image quality. During the study, patients will receive routine care including fasting and blood glucose checks before imaging. Researchers will compare PET scan findings with lymph node removal results after surgery if performed to measure sensitivity. Treatment decisions will be made based on standard PET images, while late images will be analyzed later for sensitivity. Participants may be followed for up to 39 months to assess outcomes related to lymph node staging.

Interest of Late Images for the Assessment of Extensions in 18FGD PET-CT of Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancers