Scintigraphic imaging of autotransplanted splenic grafts by 99mTc-labeled heat-damaged erythrocytes

Abstract

Splenectomy is known to increase the risk of bacterial infection. Recently splenic autotransplantation has been suggested as a method of preserving splenic function. In order to demonstrate the viability of transplanted tissue, spleen scintigraphy using 99mTc labeled heat damaged erythrocytes were carried out. So far 21 studies have done in 12 patients. Spleen scans were positive 1 month after surgery, though images showed poor contrast against considerable background of bone marrow and blood pool. The quality of the images much improved five to twelve months after surgery. Functioning splenic autografts could be also shown by scintigraphy using 99mTc sulfur colloid, but the image quality was poorer, particularly within the early stage after operation. Labeling yields were 79.8% on the average, ranging from 45.6-92.3%, that affected little the quality of images. Important techniques in the splenic autotransplantation imaging include a thorough elimination of free 99mTcO4- before injection and to use comparatively small volume of damaged erythrocytes.