Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 18, 2026
In Vivo Quantitative Assessment of Myocardial Structure, Function, Perfusion and Viability Using Cardiac Micro-computed Tomography
Published on: February 16, 2016
Artifacts and pitfalls in myocardial perfusion imaging
Steven Burrell1, Anita MacDonald
1Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre, and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. sburrell@dal.ca
Abstract:
Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is an important imaging modality in the management of patients with cardiovascular disease. MPI plays a key role in diagnosing cardiovascular disease, establishing prognosis, assessing the effectiveness of therapy, and evaluating viability. However, MPI is a complex process, subject to a variety of artifacts and pitfalls, which may limit its clinical utility. These factors may be related to the patient (including unique aspects of the patient's heart), the nuclear medicine equipment, or the actions of the technologist. After reviewing this article, the reader should be familiar with the causes and the effects of these potential artifacts and pitfalls. The reader should develop an understanding of steps to limit these factors, actions to correct them if they do arise and, when necessary, how to incorporate their influence into the interpretation of the study.
Insights
Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is crucial for cardiovascular disease management. Understanding and mitigating MPI artifacts improves diagnostic accuracy and patient care.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Nuclear Medicine
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is vital for diagnosing and managing cardiovascular disease.
- MPI aids in prognosis, therapy assessment, and viability evaluation.
- Despite its importance, MPI is prone to artifacts and pitfalls.
Purpose of the Study:
- To familiarize readers with potential artifacts and pitfalls in MPI.
- To explain the causes and effects of these imaging limitations.
- To guide readers on limiting, correcting, and interpreting studies influenced by artifacts.
Main Methods:
- Review of factors contributing to MPI artifacts.
- Analysis of patient-specific, equipment-related, and technologist-related issues.
- Discussion of strategies for artifact mitigation and correction.
Main Results:
- Identification of common causes and effects of MPI artifacts.
- Outline of practical steps to minimize artifact occurrence.
- Guidance on adjusting interpretations based on identified artifacts.
Conclusions:
- Familiarity with MPI artifacts is essential for accurate clinical interpretation.
- Proactive measures and corrective actions can enhance the utility of MPI.
- Understanding limitations improves the diagnostic and prognostic value of MPI studies.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
01:21Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI