myocardial perfusion imaging
Nuclear medicine technique using radioactive tracers to assess blood flow distribution to the heart muscle.
Full Definition
Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is a nuclear cardiology procedure that evaluates regional blood flow to the myocardium using radioactive tracers such as technetium-99m or thallium-201. The study is performed at rest and during pharmacological or exercise stress to detect areas of reduced blood flow indicating coronary artery disease. Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or positron emission tomography (PET) cameras capture the distribution of tracer uptake, creating images that show perfusion defects. This technique is valuable for diagnosing coronary artery disease, assessing myocardial viability, and evaluating treatment effectiveness.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as MPI; distinguish between nuclear and MRI-based perfusion techniques.
In Context
- "Myocardial perfusion imaging revealed a fixed defect in the inferior wall territory." — Nuclear cardiology report
- "The patient underwent pharmacological stress myocardial perfusion imaging with adenosine." — Procedure documentation