Diagnosis and localization of bronchopulmonary air leaks using ventilation scintigraphy.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the usefulness of radioaerosol ventilation scans for the detection and localization of air leaks from the lungs or bronchial tree.


METHODS
Selected patients with suspected air leaks underwent ventilation scans. Retrospective analysis of data was carried out.


METHODS
Twenty-eight hospitalized patients were included in the study.


METHODS
Ventilation scintigraphy using 99mTc-DTPA (technetium aerosol) was carried out in patients with air leaks.


RESULTS
Of the total group, there were 50% true-positive scans, 36% true-negative scans, and 14% false-negative scans giving a sensitivity of 78%, specificity of 100%, and accuracy of 86%.


CONCLUSIONS
99mTc-DTPA ventilation scintigraphy is useful in some patients with air leaks from the lung or tracheobronchial tree and may help to guide surgical intervention should this become necessary.
Mark
J B
JB
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Calif., USA.
McDougall
I R
IR
D001983:Bronchial Fistula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005402:Fistula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D010995:Pleural Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D011877:Radionuclide Imaging; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D016284:Technetium Tc 99m Pentetate
D016284:Technetium Tc 99m Pentetate