radioiodine labelled fibrinogen uptake
Last reviewed 01/2018
The uptake of radioiodine (I,125) labelled fibrinogen may be used to detect thrombus throughout the calf and in the lower three quarters of the thigh.
It is a highly sensitive technique. Only 50% of DVT's detected on labelled fibrinogen scanning are identified clinically and studies using this technique reveal post operative DVT in up to 30% of patients over 40 years old.
Despite these results, however, the technique is falling out of favour, as:
- it cannot detect thrombus which has formed before the labelled fibrinogen is given
- it is unreliable in the pelvic and hip region, since the bladder is in close proximity and may contain excreted radioiodine
- it is of little use following knee or hip surgery since labelled fibrinogen accumulates at the site of the operation
- it is contraindicated during pregnancy
- lower limb incisions may give false positive results
- there is a risk of hepatitis