Project Lead: Nicole Grössmann-Waniek
Author: Nicole Grössmann-Waniek
Publication: July 2020
Language: German
Since the 1990s, the imaging technique Positron Emission Tomography (PET) has been widely used. In recent years, hardly any other technology has been examined as frequently as PET diagnostics by Health Technology Assessment Institutions. The aim of the present update was to identify oncological indications for which the use of PET/PET-CT is recommended or explicitly not recommended by relevant societies and in evidence-based guidelines. A total of 37 evidence-based guidelines were identified regarding the use of PET for oncological indications. In the case of four oncological indications, a positive recommendation regarding the use of PET could be identified. In contrast, for eight indications a restricted use was recommended. No evidence in favour of PET examinations was identified for six indications, and for seven indication there was no, too little or inconclusive (controversial) evidence available. Just in a scarcity of instances an overall recommendations for the application of PET as a primary or standard diagnostic procedure was issued in the update 2020. In general, the present summarised evidence of guidelines can support appropriate health care service provision in Austrian hospitals.