Nuclear cardiology – a nuclear perspective on matters of the heart - healthcare-in-europe.com

Nuclear cardiology, essential for assessing heart function, is evolving with advancements in imaging technologies. Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI), vital for diagnosing coronary artery disease, traditionally relies on positron emission tomography (PET), which is limited by scanner availability. Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is being explored as a more accessible alternative, though further standardization is needed. The FDA's recent approval of the radiopharmaceutical F18-Flurpiridaz for PET-MPI marks a significant development, potentially enhancing PET access and reducing costs. Additionally, artificial intelligence is expected to simplify quantitative assessments in cardiac imaging. Recent discussions at the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM) highlighted the importance of SPECT in the diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis, suggesting a shift towards less invasive diagnostic methods. Moreover, ongoing research seeks to refine dynamic SPECT imaging for more accurate myocardial blood flow quantification, supported by advancements in camera technology and algorithms.

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 07:09:31 GMT | healthcare-in-europe.com