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Published in: Journal of Nuclear Cardiology 4/2010

01-08-2010 | Editorial Point of View

Stress only myocardial perfusion imaging: Is it time for a change?

Author: John J. Mahmarian, MD, FACC, FASNC, FSCCT

Published in: Journal of Nuclear Cardiology | Issue 4/2010

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Abstract

Stress single photon emission computed tomographic (SPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging has enjoyed great success over the past several decades as the modality of choice for accurately diagnosing and risk stratifying patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease. Same-day low-dose rest/high-dose stress imaging protocols have generally been widely adopted for this purpose. However, recent studies indicate that rest imaging may be unnecessary in patients with a normal initial stress SPECT. Elimination of the additional imaging would decrease costs, streamline patient evaluations, and reduce radiation exposure. SPECT imaging guidelines should be revised to reflect this new information.
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Metadata
Title
Stress only myocardial perfusion imaging: Is it time for a change?
Author
John J. Mahmarian, MD, FACC, FASNC, FSCCT
Publication date
01-08-2010
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Journal of Nuclear Cardiology / Issue 4/2010
Print ISSN: 1071-3581
Electronic ISSN: 1532-6551
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12350-010-9249-8

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