Positron Emission Tomography Myocardial Perfusion Imaging for Diagnosis and Risk Stratification in Obese Patients

Cardiovascular positron emission tomography: established and emerging role in cardiovascular diseases

Cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) imaging has established themselves firmly as excellent and reliable functional imaging modalities in assessment of the spectrum of coronary artery disease. With the explosion of technology advances and the dream of flow quantification now a reality, the value of PET is now well realized. Cardiac PET has proved itself as precise imaging modality that provides functional imaging of the heart in addition to anatomical imaging. It has established itself as one of the best available techniques for evaluation of myocardial viability. Hybrid PET/computed tomography provides simultaneous integration of coronary anatomy and function with myocardial perfusion and metabolism, thereby improving characterization of the dysfunctional area and chronic coronary artery disease. The availability of quantitative myocardial blood flow evaluation with PET provides additional prognostic information and increases diagnostic accuracy in the management of patients with coronary artery disease. Hybrid imaging seems to hold immense potential in optimizing management of cardiovascular diseases and furthering clinical research.

Obesity and the challenges of noninvasive imaging for the detection of coronary artery disease

Obesity is a significant health problem that could potentially lead to increased cardiovascular risk. Noninvasive imaging plays an important role in the evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms and risk of these patients. Selection of the appropriate test in the diagnosis of obstructive coronary artery disease in this unique population is important. In this article, we focus on the strengths, limitations, and recommendations of the various noninvasive cardiac imaging modalities available in the detection of obstructive coronary artery disease. We have suggested an algorithm to help direct investigation. Ultimately, patient management should be individualized based on clinical judgement, test availability, and local expertise.