stress-redistribution protocol
Nuclear imaging sequence using thallium-201 to assess both perfusion and viability in a single study.
Full Definition
The stress-redistribution protocol is a nuclear cardiology imaging sequence that uses thallium-201 to evaluate both myocardial perfusion and viability. The protocol involves stress imaging immediately after radiotracer injection, followed by redistribution imaging 3-4 hours later without additional injection. Areas showing perfusion defects on stress images that fill in on redistribution images indicate viable but ischemic myocardium. Persistent defects suggest previous infarction or scar tissue. This protocol provides comprehensive assessment of both coronary flow reserve and tissue viability, making it valuable for determining the need for revascularization in patients with coronary disease.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate compound terms; specify thallium-201 when protocol details are important.
In Context
- "The stress-redistribution protocol revealed reversible ischemia in the inferior wall territory." — Nuclear cardiology report
- "Thallium redistribution imaging showed complete fill-in of the anterior defect, indicating viable myocardium." — Viability assessment report