PET: Is myocardial flow quantification a clinical reality?

J Nucl Cardiol. 2012 Oct;19(5):1044-59. doi: 10.1007/s12350-012-9588-8.

Abstract

Positron emission tomography (PET) enables quantitative measurements of myocardial blood flow (MBF) and myocardial flow reserve (MFR). Recent developments and improved availability of PET technology have resulted in growing interest in translation of quantitative flow analysis from mainly a research tool to routine clinical practice. Quantitative PET measurements of absolute MBF and MFR have potential to improve accuracy of myocardial perfusion imaging in diagnosis of multivessel coronary artery disease as well as definition of the extent and functional importance of stenoses. This article reviews recent advances and experience in the quantitative myocardial perfusion imaging together with issues that need to be resolved for quantitative analysis to become clinical reality.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Coronary Artery Disease / diagnostic imaging
  • Coronary Circulation*
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical
  • Humans
  • Myocardial Perfusion Imaging / methods*
  • Positron-Emission Tomography / methods*
  • Rubidium Radioisotopes

Substances

  • Rubidium Radioisotopes