World First: PET-CT Guides Pain Injection

PGIMER Chandigarh has unveiled a groundbreaking, first-in-the-world technique for managing chronic musculoskeletal pain. The innovation involves using Fluorine-18 Sodium Fluoride (¹⁸F-NaF) PET-CT imaging to precisely locate pain generators, followed by targeted steroid injections. This advanced method, a collaboration between Nuclear Medicine and Orthopaedics departments, promises to revolutionize chronic pain care globally.

The technique identifies active pain sites, ensuring treatment is directed precisely where needed. This significantly improves outcomes for conditions like knee pain, lower back issues, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinitis, which often elude conventional imaging. Robotic assistance further enhances the precision of injections.

Clinical trials at PGIMER demonstrate remarkable success, with approximately 84% of patients reporting substantial pain reduction at three months. The procedure is not only effective but also affordable, costing around Rs 1,500, making advanced pain management more accessible. Patients have reported immediate relief and significant improvements in daily function.