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Updated: May 13, 2026

In Vivo Quantitative Assessment of Myocardial Structure, Function, Perfusion and Viability Using Cardiac Micro-computed Tomography
Published on: February 16, 2016
Myocardial viability: whom, what, why, which, and how?
Brian A Mc Ardle1, Rob S B Beanlands
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Viability imaging can guide revascularization decisions in ischemic cardiomyopathy. Reserve viability testing for complex patients to optimize treatment benefits and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Ischemic cardiomyopathy presents challenges for revascularization decisions.
- Viability imaging plays a role in guiding treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss current viability imaging modalities for ischemic cardiomyopathy.
- To provide guidance on patient selection for viability testing.
- To emphasize the role of viability testing in clinical decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Review of current clinical practice guidelines and recent trial data.
- Discussion of various imaging modalities used for assessing myocardial viability.
Main Results:
- Viability imaging is a valuable tool in selected patients.
- Recent trials offer insights into modality selection and patient stratification.
- Testing should be reserved for complex cases with high potential benefit.
Conclusions:
- Viability imaging results should be integrated with other clinical factors.
- It serves as an objective adjunct to decision-making, not the sole determinant.
- Careful patient selection is crucial for maximizing the benefits of revascularization guided by imaging.
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