Optimization of coded aperture radioscintigraphy for sentinel lymph node mapping.

ABSTRACT: PURPOSE:Radioscintigraphic imaging during sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping could potentially improve localization; however, parallel-hole collimators have certain limitations. In this study, we explored the use of coded aperture (CA) collimators. PROCEDURES:Equations were derived for the six major dependent variables of CA collimators (i.e., masks) as a function of the ten major independent variables, and an optimized mask was fabricated. After validation, dual-modality CA and near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence SLN mapping were performed in pigs. RESULTS:Mask optimization required the judicious balance of competing dependent variables, resulting in sensitivity of 0.35%, XY resolution of 2.0 mm, and Z resolution of 4.2 mm at an 11.5-cm field of view. The findings in pigs suggested that NIR fluorescence imaging and CA radioscintigraphy could be complementary, but present difficult technical challenges. CONCLUSIONS:This study lays the foundation for using CA collimation for SLN mapping, and also exposes several problems that require further investigation.

SUBMITTER: Fujii H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3156935 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature