[The value of 3-phase skeletal scintigraphy for early diagnosis of Sudeck disease].

PURPOSE

In a prospective study the value of the three-phase bone scintigraphy in the early diagnosis of Sudeck's atrophy was analysed.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

137 patients with the clinical suspicion on Sudeck's atrophy in stage I were examined. By means of the clinical course and additional examinations (block response), pain experts confirmed the diagnosis separately.

RESULTS

With the findings of hyperperfusion of all 5 phalanges, homogeneous hyperaemia of the affected hand or the foot and periarticular increased uptake of the whole extremity a reliable diagnosis of Sudeck's atrophy was possible. The sensitivity was 95.9%, the specificity 100%. With bone scintigraphy Sudeck's atrophy could be clearly differentiated from an inactivity atrophy.

CONCLUSION

Three-phase bone scintigraphy is an excellent tool for the objective diagnosis of Sudeck's atrophy in stage I.