myocardial perfusion imaging
A nuclear medicine technique that evaluates blood flow to the heart muscle using radioactive tracers.
Full Definition
Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is a nuclear cardiology procedure that assesses blood flow to the myocardium using radioactive pharmaceuticals. The technique involves injecting tracers such as technetium-99m sestamibi or thallium-201, which are taken up by viable myocardial cells in proportion to blood flow. Images are typically acquired at rest and during pharmacologic or exercise stress to identify areas of reduced perfusion that may indicate coronary artery disease. The study can detect reversible ischemia, fixed defects from prior infarction, and viable but hibernating myocardium. Results are often displayed as polar maps showing the distribution of tracer uptake throughout the left ventricle.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as MPI in technical contexts but should be spelled out in patient communications.
In Context
- "Myocardial perfusion imaging revealed a large reversible defect in the anterior wall territory." — Nuclear medicine report
- "The patient requires myocardial perfusion imaging to evaluate for coronary artery disease before surgery." — Pre-operative consultation