Abstract

Coded-aperture imaging (CAI) and multiple-view pinhole imaging (PI) of the thyroid were compared in a prospective study in 136 consecutive patients. Following 10 mCi of pertechnetate, 200K-count pinhole images were obtained in the anterior, RAO, and LAO projections, and CAI data were obtained in the anterior position. Four coronal tomographic sections were reconstructed by computer. Five observers read the studies separately, and ROC curves were constructed. Based on 109 pairs of studies, the ROC curves revealed similar performance for all observers for both techniques. When four observers compared the studies subjectively they rated the CAI more useful in 36% of cases, the PI in 6%, and the two equal in 58%. The advantages offered by the tomograms included improved contrast, accurate size representation of the gland at all depths, freedom frm pinhole-type distortion, and faster data acquisition. The major disadvantage to tomography was the 2-hr computer-processing time required. It this can be reduced, CAI offers sufficient advantages over conventional pinhole imaging to warrant its routine use.