myocardial perfusion imaging
Also written as: MPI — myocardial perfusion imaging
A nuclear medicine test that evaluates blood flow to heart muscle using radioactive tracers during rest and stress conditions.
Full Definition
Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is a nuclear cardiology procedure that assesses coronary blood flow and myocardial viability using radioactive tracers such as technetium-99m or thallium-201. The test is typically performed under both resting and stress conditions (exercise or pharmacological) to identify areas of reduced blood flow that may indicate coronary artery disease. MPI provides valuable information about the functional significance of coronary stenoses and helps guide treatment decisions in cardiovascular prevention and management.
Usage
Usage note: Often performed with SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) imaging.
In Context
- "Myocardial perfusion imaging demonstrated a moderate reversible defect in the inferior wall consistent with right coronary artery stenosis." — Nuclear cardiology report