Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026
Combined In vivo Optical and µCT Imaging to Monitor Infection, Inflammation, and Bone Anatomy in an Orthopaedic Implant Infection in Mice
Published on: October 16, 2014
Technetium-99m(V)-DMSA and gallium-67 in the assessment of bone and joint infection
1Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical College Hospital, Taiwan.
Unlabelled:
The aim of our study was to investigate the diagnostic value of scans with 99mTc(V)-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) to localize bone and joint infection compared with scans using 67Ga.
Methods:
Thirty-six patients referred for investigation of bone and joint infection were studied. In all patients, a bone scan was obtained initially. Subsequently, comparative scans with 99mTc(V)-DMSA and 67Ga were performed 1 wk apart. Microbiological findings, pathologic findings and/or clinical follow-up (until symptoms disappeared) were considered to be proof of the presence of bone and joint infection.
Results:
Technetium-99m (V)-DMSA showed greater sensitivity and accuracy than 67Ga in the assessment of bone and joint infection, although the difference was not statistically significant.
Conclusion:
In comparison with a 67Ga scan, a 99mTc(V)-DMSA scan, in combination with a bone scan, is a reliable way to diagnose bone and joint infection. Both tracers were useful in the diagnosis of bone and joint infection.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Magnetic Resonance Imaging
01:14Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
01:25Imaging Studies II: Positron Emission Tomography and Scintigraphy
Fundamental Principles of PET