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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI): A Patient-Friendly Explanation
Introduction
Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) is a non-invasive test used to evaluate blood flow to the heart muscle (myocardium). It helps identify areas with poor circulation, which can indicate coronary artery disease (CAD) or assess the effectiveness of treatments like stents or bypass surgery.
Why is MPI Important?
MPI is essential for detecting and monitoring: - Coronary artery disease (CAD) – Blocked or narrowed arteries - Heart attack (myocardial infarction) risks – Identifying high-risk areas - Heart function – Assessing how well the heart pumps blood - Treatment effectiveness – Gauging improvements after medical procedures
How is MPI Performed?
MPI is done in two phases: 1. Rest Phase – A tracer is injected into a vein while the patient is resting. A special camera captures images of blood flow in the heart. 2. Stress Phase – The patient is asked to exercise or is given medication to simulate stress on the heart. Another dose of tracer is injected, and images are taken again.
This allows doctors to compare blood flow at rest and under stress conditions.
What are the Common Test Results?
- Normal MPI – Adequate blood flow to the heart.
- Abnormal MPI – Indications of reduced blood flow, possibly due to artery blockages or past heart damage.
Risks and Considerations
- MPI is generally safe but carries minor risks such as allergic reactions to the tracer or temporary discomfort.
- If stress medication is used, it may cause short-term dizziness or chest pain.
Conclusion
MPI is a powerful tool for diagnosing heart conditions early and planning the best course of treatment. If recommended by your doctor, it can provide critical insight into your heart’s health.
Source recommendations
1. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines for the Clinical Use of Cardiac Radionuclide Imaging
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14522503/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000080946.42225.4d
- https://www.jacc.org/doi/abs/10.1016/j.jacc.2003.08.011
- https://www.jtcvs.org/article/S0022-5223(18)33502-5/fulltext
- https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2003.08.011
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Chronic Coronary Syndromes
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Chronic-Coronary-Syndromes
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/45/36/3415/7743115
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39210710/
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/3/407/5556137
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31504439/
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.