Motion correction and myocardial perfusion SPECT using manufacturer provided software. Does it affect image...

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Cardiology
• Medical Imaging Analysis

Background:

• Myocardial perfusion SPECT is vital for diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD).
• Patient motion during SPECT acquisition can cause artifacts, leading to increased false-positive rates.
• Accurate assessment of myocardial perfusion is crucial for effective CAD management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of motion-correction software on myocardial perfusion SPECT.
• To analyze changes in perfusion scores following the application of motion-correction techniques.
• To determine the efficacy of automatic versus manual motion correction in SPECT imaging.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 160 myocardial perfusion SPECT studies using (99m)Tc-sestamibi.
• Studies were divided into groups based on the presence of perfusion defects and motion during acquisition.
• Comparison of image processing with and without automatic/manual motion correction using Siemens ECAM and QPS software.

Main Results:

• Moderate agreement was found between corrected and original SPECT interpretations.
• Automatic motion correction showed potential benefits in mild to moderate motion cases.
• Software overestimated or created new perfusion defects in patients with mild or no motion.
• Manual correction demonstrated the lowest agreement with original interpretations.

Conclusions:

• Motion-correction software for myocardial perfusion SPECT should be applied cautiously.
• Repeating acquisitions is recommended for severe motion.
• Avoiding correction in cases of no or mild motion appears preferable to prevent artifactual findings.