title: LeVeen shunt patency studies: clarification of scinigraphic findings.
abstract: In an experimental model we have demonstrated that visualization of the target organ is the only dependable criterion for the scintigraphic evaluation of LeVeen shunt patency or nonpatency. The lungs are best suited as the target, because the presence or absence of pulmonary uptake can be easily seen without interference from radiolabeled peritoneal fluid. Proof of shunt patency should not rely upon direct visualization of shunt tubing, because very high or low flow rates are both associated with poor visualization. Maximum accumulation of activity in the shunt tubing occurs with intermediate flow rates (approximately 60 cc/hr).
mesh_terms: D001201:Ascites / Q000601:surgery*; D003102:Colloids; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008168:Lung / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008722:Methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D010529:Peritoneal Cavity / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D011877:Radionuclide Imaging; D012709:Serum Albumin; D013455:Sulfur; D013667:Technetium; D013668:Technetium Tc 99m Aggregated Albumin; D013671:Technetium Tc 99m Sulfur Colloid
chemical_list: D003102:Colloids; D012709:Serum Albumin; D013668:Technetium Tc 99m Aggregated Albumin; D013671:Technetium Tc 99m Sulfur Colloid; D013455:Sulfur; D013667:Technetium