Patency evaluation of a LeVeen shunt using 99mTc-sulfur colloid

The LeVeen shunt has proved valuable in relieving intractable ascites. It is however subject to failure in about 5--8% of cases. To our knowledge there are only three reports in the literature describing the use of nuclides to assess patency; two using 99mTc-sulfur colloid and one using 99mTc-albumin. The purpose of this paper is to add our experience to the data currently published and stress that late liver visualization may occur with an obstructed shunt.