The value of radionuclide venography in superior vena caval obstruction

A prospective study on 27 patients with suspected obstruction of the superior vena cava (SVC) and 10 control patients with no known chest disease was undertaken to determine the value of radionuclide venography in aiding diagnosis and treatment of the condition. The technique proved simple, safe and non-invasive and could rapidly confirm or exclude the diagnosis when in doubt. In addition, the technique had a role in radiotherapy planning, highlighting unsuspected superior mediastinal disease not visible on the chest radiograph. However, follow-up post-treatment scans were of little help due to the good clinical markers of obstruction of the SVC. The normal and abnormal scan appearances are described.