99mTc-PP and 67Ga imaging following insertion of orthopedic devices.

Deposition of 67Ga in bone does not explicitly imply osteomyelitis. Osteomyelitis complicating insertion of orthopedic devices is manifested by lack of congruence in the distribution patterns of 99mTc-PP and 67Ga. Congruent patterns can reflect the increased bone reaction to implantation or loosening of the device, not necessarily osteomyelitis. Both (a) nonseptic synovitis secondary to reactive bursa formation and (b) cellulitis exhibit an affinity for 67Ga and virtually none for 99mTc-PP, whereas the reverse is true for heterotopic bone. Thus combined sequential 99mTc-PP/67Ga imaging is necessary for evaluation of complications associated with internal orthopedic devices.