[The use of bone scintigraphy with technetium 99 m pyrophosphates in the diagnosis of algodystrophies. A report on 74 observations (author's transl)].

Bone scintigraphy with technetium 99m pyrophosphates was used to study a series of 74 cases of algodystrophies. Though non-specific, this investigation was the determining factor for confirming the diagnosis in more than 48% of cases, by demonstrating early bone hyperfixation, its topographical characteristics, and the return to normal conditions after 3 to 12 months. Bone hyperfixation has to be exaluated together with clinical, biological, and radiological signs when considering the diagnosis, and though in half the cases it is not indispensable for diagnosis, it is always of value for determining the amount of extension of the algodystrophic process.