Which radiopharmaceutical is used to assess the patency of ventriculoperitoneal shunts?

The use of 99mTc-pertechnetate to assess the patency of ventriculoperitoneal shunts is based on its properties as a radiopharmaceutical that can efficiently provide imaging of the abdominal cavity and cerebrospinal fluid pathways. When injected into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) reservoir of the shunt, 99mTc-pertechnetate can travel through the shunt, allowing for scintigraphy to detect whether the shunt is functioning properly or if there is any obstruction or malfunction. Its rapid clearance and high uptake in tissues enable imaging to assess the distribution of the radiopharmaceutical, making it a valuable tool in evaluating shunt patency.

The correct choice reflects an appropriate understanding of the clinical application of different radiopharmaceuticals in nuclear medicine, particularly in assessing medical devices like shunts, which are crucial in treating conditions such as hydrocephalus. The other options listed do not specifically provide the same type of imaging utility for this particular diagnostic need.