Childen's Hospital Boston 300 Longwood Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 355-6000
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My Child Has:
Ventilation/Perfusion Study
Programs that perform this test
Nuclear Medicine/PET Division   Lung Transplant Program   
What is a Ventilation/Perfusion Study?
image of a perfusion study
image of ventilation perfuson study Ventilation Perfusion Study
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A Ventilation/Perfusion study is a diagnostic imaging study that is used to check airflow and blood flow to the lungs.
Why would my doctor request a Ventilation/Perfusion Study?
A Ventilation/Perfusion Study can help:
  • Evaluate disorders of pulmonary vasculature (pulmonary embolism, infarct, thrombosis)
  • Assess the postoperative period in children following interventional cardiac catheterization or cardiothoracic surgery
  • Assess regional lung function in children with cystic fibrosis
  • Evaluate children following congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair
  • Detect any airway occlusion
How to prepare for a Ventilation/Perfusion Study?
There is no preparation needed for this test. Your child may bring a security blanket/toy with them to hold during the procedure. We have various videos or DVDs to choose from for your child to watch during the procedure or you can bring one from home. If a recent chest X-ray has not been performed, we may need to send you for one prior to the ventilation/perfusion scan
How is a Ventilation/Perfusion performed?
You will be greeted by one of our technologists who will explain to you and your child what will happen during the examination. The examination involves two parts. During the first part, the study will show the airway to the lungs. A mask attached to a bag filled with oxygen and a radiopharmaceutical gas, called Xenon-133, will be placed over your/your child's nose and mouth. The gas is harmless, tasteless and odorless. At this time it will be necessary to take a deep breath in and hold it for as long as possible. Then continue to breathe into the bag for an additional minute. At the end of that minute, a special exhaust fan will be placed near you/your child's head to help eliminate the exhaled gas. During the second part, the study will show blood flow to the lungs. A radiopharmaceutical called Technetium-99m MAA will be injected in one of your/your child's veins. Imaging will be performed continuously throughout the examination. It is important that you/your child remain as still as possible during imaging to obtain the best quality images.
What can be expected during the prodecure?
The placement of the mask over the mouth and nose may cause some anxiety or discomfort, but will not harm you/your child.

You/your child may experience some discomfort associated with the insertion of the intravenous needle. The needle used for the procedure is small. Once the radiopharmaceutical is injected, the needle is withdrawn and a gauze bandage with adhesive tape is placed over the site of the injection. The area where the injection was given may be a little sore.

Although the camera may appear large and intimidating, it does not touch you/your child.

What happens after the study?
Once the study is complete, it will be evaluated for quality. If there was too much motion, the study may need to be repeated. If there was no motion, you/your child will be free to leave and resume normal activity.
How are the results of the study obtained?
The images will be processed and then the nuclear medicine physician will evaluate and interpret the study and promptly inform you/your child's referring physician of the results.
How can additional information be obtained?
For more information about Nuclear Medicine/PET, please contact us at:

Division of Nuclear Medicine/PET
Children's Hospital Boston
300 Longwood Avenue, Pavilion 2
Boston, MA 02115
Main Number: 617-355-7010
Fax Number: 617-730-0623
Business hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

How is an appointment scheduled?

To schedule an appointment please contact your referring physician as their office must schedule it for you. If you currently have an appointment and need to reschedule or are unable to make the appointment, please call us at least 48 hours in advance at 617-355-7010.

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which can only be given to you by your personal health care professional.
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