Dual camera studies of pulmonary function with computer processing of data.

Xenon 133 and 2 scintillation cameras arranged to view both anterior and posterior lung fields are being used routinely for evaluation of pulmonary function. Scintiphotograms are obtained from both cameras throughout the course of both perfusion and ventilation portions of the study. In addition, data from both cameras are digitized and stored on line in a dedicated computer for further analysis. Computer processing of data permits quantitative information to be obtained on perfusion, ventilation and clearance of the radioactive gas from selected regions of the anterior and posterior lung fields. Ventilation-perfusion ratios and washout times are likewise calculated by computer.