Association of lung perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with postoperative lung function...

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Radiology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Lung perfusion scintigraphy aids in predicting lung function decrease post-lobectomy.
• Limited data exists on its predictive value following lung segmentectomy.
• This study evaluates perfusion SPECT/CT for predicting lung function changes after segmentectomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of preoperative lung perfusion SPECT/CT in predicting significant lung function decline after segmentectomy.
• To identify predictors of decreased forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) 6 months post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational cohort study of 51 patients undergoing segmentectomy.
• Preoperative lung perfusion SPECT/CT was utilized to predict 6-month postoperative FEV1 changes.
• FEV1 decrease exceeding a minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of 100 mL was the primary outcome.

Main Results:

• 45% of patients experienced an FEV1 decrease meeting the MCID threshold.
• Lung perfusion SPECT/CT was the sole multivariate predictor of FEV1 change and MCID achievement.
• SPECT-based prediction showed 83% sensitivity and 64% specificity for MCID decrease.

Conclusions:

• Segmental lung perfusion assessed by lung perfusion SPECT/CT is significantly associated with post-segmentectomy lung function reduction.
• Perfusion SPECT/CT is a valuable tool for predicting lung function outcomes after segmentectomy.