AI Insight
Researchers have developed a new PET radiotracer capable of detecting deep vein thrombosis in the legs and identifying whether blood clots have traveled to the lungs. The technology enables whole-body imaging of blood clots in a single scan, potentially streamlining the diagnostic process for patients at risk of pulmonary embolism. The work was presented at the 2026 SNMMI Annual Meeting and received recognition as the Image of the Year.
Why it matters
This imaging approach could significantly improve clinical efficiency by allowing simultaneous detection of DVT and pulmonary embolism in one procedure, rather than requiring separate tests. Faster diagnosis of pulmonary embolism is particularly critical given its potential to be life-threatening.
A novel PET radiotracer can accurately detect deep vein thrombosis in the legs and reveal whether clots have migrated to the lungs. By enabling whole-body imaging of blood clots in a single scan, the approach may support faster and more efficient diagnosis—particularly for patients who also require evaluation for potentially life-threatening pulmonary embolism. This research was presented at the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) 2026 Annual Meeting, and the collection of images showcasing the visualization of blood clots in the legs and in the lungs has been selected as the 2026 SNMMI Henry N. Wagner, Jr., Image of the Year.