Nuclear cardiology in China: 2017

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Imaging
• Nuclear Medicine
• Comparative Healthcare Analysis

Background:

• Nuclear cardiology is a rapidly evolving field globally.
• Understanding regional differences in nuclear cardiology practice is crucial for global health.
• China's nuclear cardiology landscape has seen significant growth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the current status of nuclear cardiology in China.
• To contrast nuclear cardiology practices in China with those in the United States (US).
• To identify key differences and propose potential solutions for advancing nuclear cardiology in China.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of nuclear cardiology infrastructure and practices.
• Case study comparison between West China Hospital and New York-Presbyterian Hospital (NYPH).
• Review of equipment availability (cyclotrons, SPECT/CT, PET/CT, PET/MR) and study types.

Main Results:

• In 2015, China had 101 medical cyclotrons and substantial SPECT/CT and PET/CT installations.
• Gated SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) constitutes ~90% of nuclear cardiology studies in China.
• Significant differences exist between West China Hospital and NYPH in cardiac stress tests, imaging protocols, and fellowship training.

Conclusions:

• Nuclear cardiology in China is characterized by a high volume of SPECT MPI, with developing PET applications.
• Disparities in clinical practice, technology adoption, and training necessitate targeted improvements.
• Addressing these differences can enhance the quality and scope of nuclear cardiology services in China.