Abstract des Autors

Three-phase bone scintigraphy is the choice procedure for evaluation of foot pathology in athletes, as metabolic changes occur earlier than anatomic changes. Rigorous procedures improve the scintigraphy output (high resolution gamma-camera, high resolution collimators, strict immobility, acquisition time adapted to the intensity of focal activity). Interpretation must always take into account both clinical findings and results of standard radiographs. Bone scintigraphy has an almost 100% sensitivity in such conditions; normal scintigraphy can therefore rule out an osteo-articular origin. Its specificity is lower, hence the necessity to have strict interpretation guidelines. Scintigraphic examination include angiogram (acquisition during the first 3 to 5 minutes), blood pool images (acquisition at 5 minutes) and routine spot films or tomographic acquisition (after 2.5 to 3 hours). The first two phases reflect blood supply, which usually parallels inflammation processes. Bone scintigraphy should be prescribed whenever lasting pain occurs and radiographs are normal. Verf.-Referat