Fourier phase analysis of first-pass data: noninvasive detection of pulmonary sequestration.

Nuclear medicine Fourier phase analysis of first-pass data was used to evaluate blood flow to cystic lung masses in two children suspected of having pulmonary sequestrations. In both cases, the Fourier images provided a rapid, noninvasive, inexpensive analysis of the blood supply to the masses and permitted identification of the masses as pulmonary sequestrations. The analysis does not depend on the location of the mass and demonstrates the location of systemic rather than pulmonic arterial blood supply to the mass. In one case, Fourier analysis identified a second source of systemic blood supply not visible with other imaging modalities. Preoperative assessment of a cystic lung mass using Fourier analysis enables noninvasive classification of the mass as a pulmonary sequestration with systemic blood supply and aids the surgeon in resection.