Diagnostic usefulness of myocardial perfusion imaging in patients reluctant to undergo angiography

Abstract

Patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease are often referred for isch- emic testing to aid in risk assessment and guide management when symptoms develop. Invasive coronary angiography and percutaneous intervention are typically reserved for patients with symptoms refractory to medical management. The use of noninvasive modalities with myocardial perfusion imaging is a powerful diagnostic and prognostic tool for patients reluctant to undergo angiography. This review focuses on evaluation of coronary artery disease with myocardial perfusion imaging using single-photon emission computerized tomography, positron emission tomography, myocardial contrast echocardiography, cardiovascular magnetic resonance, and cardiovascular computerized tomography.