Speakers
Description
Introduction :
The Abidjan Nuclear Medicine Institute (IMENA) serves as the sole specialized facility for nuclear medicine in Côte d’Ivoire. Operational since October 2023, IMENA represents a major sovereign investment by the Ivorian government to integrate molecular imaging into the national healthcare system.
This study provides an assessment of the initial operational phase, an analysis of current infrastructural constraints, and outlines a strategic roadmap to address the growing diagnostic needs of the West African sub-region.
Institutional and technical framework :
Housed in a purpose-built two-story facility, IMENA’s technical platform was established through a privileged partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The current instrumentation includes a dual-head SPECT gamma camera, a laminar flow ventilated hood with an integrated dose calibrator, and specialized equipment for radioimmunoassay (RIA).
The multidisciplinary team consists of four nuclear physicians, eight residents, a radiopharmacist, a medical physicist, and a robust technical staff of thirteen technologists and nine nurses.
Clinical Activity and Oncological Burden:
Since its inauguration, IMENA has experienced a continuous surge in clinical demand, performing approximately 3,622 scintigraphic procedures to date. The clinical landscape is heavily dominated by oncology, with bone scans accounting for 71.5% (n=2,588) of total activity. Other procedures include renal (n=467), thyroid (n=402), and myocardial perfusion (n=85) scans.
These figures underscore the critical role of nuclear medicine in managing chronic diseases, particularly in an oncological context where hybrid imaging is becoming the gold standard.
Challenges and Strategic Barriers:
Despite successful operationalization, several factors limit the full integration of nuclear medicine into the Ivorian care pathway:
• Technological gaps: the absence of hybrid imaging (SPECT/CT) and high-end diagnostic tools restricts diagnostic accuracy for complex cases.
• Logistical fragility: difficulties in the supply chain for cold kits and ready-to-use radiopharmaceuticals hinder service continuity.
• Human resources: a persistent deficit in highly specialized professionals remains a bottleneck for scaling up activities.
Perspectives and Roadmap :
To optimize performance and expand its diagnostic scope, IMENA has defined five priority axes:
1. Infrastructural modernization: transitioning to hybrid imaging with the acquisition of SPECT/CT and the planned construction of a PET/CT and cyclotron unit.
2. Specialized training: establishing local and regional degree programs for physicians, physicists, and radiopharmacists.
3. Supply chain fluidity: enhancing the procurement of generators and radiopharmaceuticals.
4. Maintenance excellence: implementing sustainable equipment maintenance strategies.
5. Radiation protection: continuous improvement of safety protocols for both staff and patients.
Conclusion :
IMENA illustrates the high potential of NM in Côte d’Ivoire. Strengthening its infrastructure and regional partnerships will be decisive in ensuring sustainable development and improving access to high-quality specialized care in West Africa.
Keywords :
Côte d’Ivoire; IMENA; Nuclear medicine; SPECT technology; oncological burden; LMICs (Low- and Medium-Income Countries)
| Track | Situation of Nuclear Medicine in Low- and Medium-Income Countries |
|---|---|
| Presentation type | Poster |