Cardiac Imaging with Nuclear Medicine A Lifesaving Tool for Heart Disease

Nuclear cardiac imaging is a cornerstone of modern cardiology, offering unmatched insights into heart function and disease progression. For patients at risk of heart disease, discussing nuclear imaging options with a cardiologist could be a critical step toward prevention and recovery.

- Dr.Murali R.Nadig

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of global mortality, accounting for nearly 18 million deaths annually (WHO). Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, and nuclear medicine imaging has_ revolutionized cardiac care by providing detailed insights into heart function, blood flow, and tissue viability. Techniques like SPECT (Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography) and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) are now indispensable in cardiology, helping clinicians diagnose, manage, and monitor heart disease with precision.

How Nuclear Cardiac Imaging Works

Nuclear cardiac imaging involves injecting a small, safe amount of radioactive tracer (radiotracer) into the patient's bloodstream. This tracer accumulates in the heart muscle, and a specialized gamma camera detects its emissions to create detailed images. The two primary techniques are:

1. Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) with SPECT

Purpose: Evaluates blood flow to the heart muscle under stress (exercise or pharmacologically induced) and at rest.

How it works:

• A radioactive tracer (e.g., Technetium-99m or Thallium-201) is injected.

• SPECT cameras capture 3D images of blood flow distribution.

Key Uses: