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Trans-splenic portal scintigraphy in normal dogs
Robert C Cole1, Federica Morandi, James Avenell
1Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Tennessee, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Knoxville, TN 37996-4544, USA.
Summary
Ultrasound-guided trans-splenic portal scintigraphy (TSPS) offers a superior, lower-radiation alternative to per-rectal portal scintigraphy (PRPS) for imaging the portal venous system in dogs. This technique clearly visualizes portal vein morphology, aiding in diagnosing portosystemic shunts.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Radiology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Nuclear Medicine
Background:
- Portosystemic shunts are common vascular anomalies in dogs.
- Accurate imaging of the portal venous system is crucial for diagnosis.
- Per-rectal portal scintigraphy (PRPS) is an established but potentially less optimal imaging technique.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish and validate ultrasound-guided trans-splenic portal scintigraphy (TSPS) in juvenile dogs.
- To evaluate the visualization of portal vein morphology using TSPS.
- To compare radiation exposure and data quality between TSPS and PRPS.
Main Methods:
- Eight juvenile dogs underwent both PRPS and TSPS using 99mTcO4(-).
- TSPS involved ultrasound-guided splenic injection of a lower dose of 99mTcO4(-) compared to PRPS.
- Dynamic acquisition with a high frame rate was used for TSPS.
Main Results:
- TSPS required significantly less radioactivity (57 MBq) than PRPS (425 MBq).
- TSPS yielded higher total counts in the liver and heart, indicating better tracer uptake.
- TSPS clearly identified splenic and portal veins, with a significantly lower radiation exposure to the animals.
Conclusions:
- Trans-splenic portal scintigraphy (TSPS) is a safe and effective alternative to PRPS.
- TSPS provides superior imaging of the portal venous system with reduced radiation exposure.
- This technique is a valuable diagnostic tool for suspected portosystemic shunts in animals.