myocardial perfusion imaging
Also written as: MPI — myocardial perfusion imaging
Nuclear medicine technique using radioactive tracers to assess blood flow to the heart muscle.
Full Definition
Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is a nuclear cardiology procedure that evaluates blood flow to the myocardium using radioactive tracers such as technetium-99m or thallium-201. The test is performed both at rest and under stress conditions (exercise or pharmacologic) to detect areas of reduced blood flow that may indicate coronary artery disease. Images are typically acquired using single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or positron emission tomography (PET). MPI helps clinicians assess the functional significance of coronary stenoses and guide treatment decisions regarding revascularization.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as MPI; specify tracer type and imaging modality when detailed documentation is required.
In Context
- "Myocardial perfusion imaging demonstrated a fixed defect in the inferior wall consistent with prior infarction." — nuclear cardiology report
- "The patient was referred for myocardial perfusion imaging to evaluate chest pain with intermediate pretest probability." — consultation note