Rationalization of the optimal views in planar lung scintigraphy

A knowledge of the segmental anatomy of the lungs is the cornerstone for interpreting lung scintigraphy. Many attempts have been made to determine the best views for the appreciation of segmental defects and various theories have been formulated to explain the mechanisms of this process. In earlier work, we hypothesized that the arrangements of the segments was the principal determinant of this process. However, data subsequently derived from work on a model of diffuse lung disease indicates that the external shape of the lobes and lungs may be the most significant contributor to the optimal views of the lungs.