To Perform or Not to Perform Radioiodine Scans Prior to ¹³¹I Remnant Ablation? PRO

Abstract

The utility of radioiodine pre-remnant ablation scans remains very controversial. This chapter argues for performing radioiodine pre-remnant ablation scans. There are five main arguments that are typically presented against the utility of pre-remnant ablation scans: (1) “no useful data is obtained from pre-remnant ablation radioiodine scans that will alter my management,” (2) “everything I need to know is on the post-therapy scan,” (3) stunning, (4) the potential benefit is not worth the costs or inconveniences, and (5) until data are published demonstrating that the pre-¹³¹I therapy scans alter patient outcomes, these scans should not be performed. This chapter presents a point by counterpoint discussion of the arguments for and against pre-therapy radioiodine ablation. The chapter concludes with rarely discussed issues that in my opinion may be important points regarding the differences in opinions of the utility of pre-remnant ablation radioiodine scans.