Could the eZ-SCOPE AN Gamma Camera Replace Intraoperative Measurement of iPTH for PHPT?

Intraoperative intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) measurements have been proposed as an effective assay in surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). We have demonstrated the efficiency of the use of a hand-held gamma camera, eZ-SCOPE AN, with technetium-99m sestamibi (Tc-MIBI) scintigraphy for navigation surgery for PHPT. The aim of this preliminary study was to assess the possibility that the eZ-SCOPE AN can replace the measurement of intraoperative iPTH in surgery for PHPT. Sixteen consecutive patients with documented primary hyperparathyroidism underwent surgery using this compact camera. iPTH was routinely measured preoperatively and 10 minutes after the complete removal of adenoma. All patients had a well-defined parathyroid lesion identified on preoperative Tc-MIBI. The eZ-SCOPE revealed hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands in all cases. iPTH levels were decreased in all cases after the removal of adenomas. Our results suggest that this gamma camera is useful for confirming complete resection of endocrinologically active tissue in surgery for PHPT. In selective patients with scan-positive cases identified by preoperative Tc-MIBI, the eZ-SCOPE may replace the intraoperative iPTH assay in surgery for PHPT.