Lymphoscintigraphy with single-photon emission computerized tomography/computed tomography for evaluating lymphatic leakage following pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy

Abstract

Lymphatic ascites following pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy is a well-known complication. Surgical treatment and interventional radiology are required in a few cases. To determine the appropriate treatment strategy, it is important to preoperatively detect the presence and location of lymphatic leakage. However, the methods have yet to be established.We report a case in which lymphoscintigraphy with single-photon emission computerized tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) was performed to evaluate pelvic lymphorrhea that occurred following total hysterectomy with pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy for stage IIIA uterine sarcoma. Lymphoscintigraphy with SPECT/CT showed leakage of radioisotopes into the pelvic space, and intranodal lymphangiography was performed based on these findings. Following the procedure, the pelvic lymphorrhea improved, and no radioisotope leakage was confirmed by re-evaluation with lymphoscintigraphy with SPECT/CT.Our case indicates that lymphoscintigraphy with SPECT/CT may be useful for detecting the precise site of lymphatic leakage before interventional radiology or surgery.

Keywords

• Interventional radiology
• Lymphatic ascites
• Lymphorrhea
• Lymphoscintigraphy
• SPECT/CT