Application of radionuclide imaging to hepatic impact injury in rabbits

Objective: To investigate the role and clinical value of radionuclide imaging in hepatic impact injuries in rabbits. Methods: Rabbits were experimentally impacted on the liver with BIM IV bio impact machine. Liver imaging was performed with 99m Tc labeled sodium phytate. Liver blood pool imaging was performed with 99m Tc stannous pyrophosphate labeled red blood cells. The results of radionuclide imaging were compared with the anatomic results. Results: There was significant difference between the images of the injured liver and the control. Radio diminution and defect were shown in the injured liver areas. Various sorts of abnormal radioactivity distribution were observed with hepatic blood pool imaging. The results of the liver imaging and liver blood pool imaging were accorded with the results of the anatomic findings. Conclusions: Radionuclide imaging may well display the changes of hepatocellular structures and functions after injury, which is valuable in locating the concrete injured position and differentiating the injured degrees of liver.