Radionuclide venography by subcutaneous injection of Tc-99m pertechnetate at acupuncture point K-3: a case report

Recently, we developed a new method of radionuclide venography of lower limbs, namely SC-RNV, by subcutaneous injection of Tc-99m pertechnetate at acupuncture points K-3. In this study, we applied this method to evaluate the venous drainage of lower limbs in a patient with severe varicose veins and edematous swelling of the left lower extremity. For comparison, an ascending radionuclide venography by intravenous injection of Tc-99m MAA (IV-RNV) was also done. The SC-RNV showed normal venous drainage of the right side but complete obstruction of the left popliteal vein with a prominent collateral flow, compatible to the findings of IV-RNV. The findings in this case again demonstrated that SC-RNV may be useful as an alternative method of venography as previously suggested.