[Lung function scintigraphy in the diagnosis of regional disturbances of ventilation (author's transl)]

Lung function scintigraphy is the method of choice for the diagnosis of regional ventilation disturbances. The aim of this study was to determine which of various parameters is the most reliable. Sensitivity of the 3-minute retension test is 96%, of the single breath 45%, equilibration 32% and of the ventilation index, only 28%. Sensitivity of the various parameters for demonstrating multi-focal ventilation abnormalities is 100% for the 3 minute retention test, 32% for single breath, 19% for equilibration and 21% for the ventilation index. The underlying basis for these findings is discussed and it is concluded that it is possible to simplify the technique when dealing with regional ventilation abnormality in obstructive airway disease, but not when dealing with other restrictive changes.