A novel utility of 99mTc-GSA SPECT/CT fusion imaging: detection of inadequate portal vein embolization

Purpose Our aim was to determine the utility of Tc-99m-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid-galactosyl human serum albumin single-photon-emission computed tomography ( 99m Tc-GSA SPECT/CT) fusion imaging for detecting incomplete portal vein embolization (PVE). Materials and methods Fifty-five candidates underwent PVE. Among them, five underwent second PVE. Detectability of first inadequate PVE using CT and 99m Tc-GSA SPECT/CT fusion imaging was analyzed. Results Cases of inadequate PVE were detected in three patients using CT and in five using 99m Tc-GSA SPECT/CT fusion imaging. Fusion imaging detected two cases of insufficient PVE in which portal branches were apparently well embolized on CT. Median value for volumetric rate in the embolized liver was 63.3% after the first PVE and 54.7% after the second ( P