Myocardial perfusion imaging in evaluation of undiagnosed acute chest pain

Intern Med J. 2001 Dec;31(9):544-6. doi: 10.1046/j.1445-5994.2001.00118.x.

Abstract

Myocardial perfusion imaging is a relatively new technique in the emergency department management of acute chest pain. With improved sensitivity and specificity compared to traditional methods of risk stratification, an abnormal scan rapidly identifies individuals with acute perfusion abnormalities and allows the appropriate utilization of limited resources. Conversely, a normal scan allows prompt hospital discharge and is associated with excellent outcomes both in the short and medium terms. Acute chest pain myocardial perfusion imaging has been demonstrated to alter patient management and disposition and its routine use results in decreased costs in the intermediate risk population.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Chest Pain / etiology*
  • Coronary Circulation*
  • Coronary Disease / diagnostic imaging*
  • Coronary Disease / physiopathology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Radionuclide Imaging
  • Radiopharmaceuticals*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Technetium Tc 99m Sestamibi*

Substances

  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Technetium Tc 99m Sestamibi