Background Information

MDS Nordion supplies 30 - 40 per cent of the world's medical isotopes used to capture molecular images. These images enable physicians to better diagnose and treat a multitude of diseases including cardiac and neurological conditions, in addition to several types of cancers.  Even today, nuclear medicine is one of the most powerful analytical tools available to physicians and patients because of its ability to provide dynamic views of organ structure and function.

MDS Nordion's highest priority has always been the safe, effective and reliable supply of medical isotopes to meet the needs of the medical community and the patients we serve. In the early 1990s MDS Nordion recognized the serious nature of the aging global reactor infrastructure and contracted to have two nuclear reactors and a processing facility brought into service. This project became known as the MAPLE project and was intended to secure a long-term supply of medical isotopes.

The solution to the medical isotope crisis is in Canada. Canadian-produced medical isotopes are responsible for supplying 30 - 40 per cent of the world's medical isotopes. MDS Nordion and many Canadian and international experts still believe the completion of the MAPLE project is the best solution to provide a secure long-term supply of medical isotopes.

Background Documents