Published online Sep 28, 2014. doi: 10.4329/wjr.v6.i9.726
Revised: June 25, 2014
Accepted: July 25, 2014
Published online: September 28, 2014
Processing time: 138 Days and 13.5 Hours
Modification of 4-dimensional computed tomography (4D-CT) technique with volume rendering reconstructions and significant dose reduction is a safe and accurate method of pre-operative localization for primary hyperparathyroidism. Modified low dose 4D-CT with volume rendering reconstructions provides precise preoperative localization and is associated with a significant reduction in radiation exposure compared to classic preoperative localizing techniques. It should be considered the preoperative localization study of choice for primary hyperparathyroidism.
Core tip: To our knowledge, this is the first paper detailing the technical aspects of a low dose 4-dimensional computed tomography with volume rendering reconstruction. It is our aim to share our institute’s technique and experience in the hope of improved utilization of this modality. With this technique, our results are comparable to those published in the literature for diagnostic accuracy regarding correlation to intraoperative pathology. The 3D Volume rendering reconstruction of the parathyroid pathology shown in relation to the clavicle, thyroid gland, and skin provide superior surgical guidance and an essentially “cut here” approach for directed parathyroidectomy.