Myocardial imaging, positron emission tomography (PET), perfusion study (including ventricular wall motion[s] and/or ejection fraction[s], when performed); single study, at rest or stress (exercise or pharmacologic)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Myocardial Imaging, Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Perfusion Study; single study, at rest or stress (exercise or pharmacologic).
Summary
In simple terms, Myocardial Imaging with PET is a specialized heart test that helps doctors see how well blood flows through the heart muscle. This can be done while you're resting or during some form of stress like exercise or with medication.
Purpose
The test helps identify areas of the heart with poor blood flow or damage. It is mainly used to diagnose coronary artery disease, evaluate heart function, and help plan treatments.
Indications
This procedure is typically recommended for patients experiencing symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or those with a high risk of heart disease. It's also useful for patients whose initial tests were inconclusive but have symptoms that suggest heart problems.
Preparation
- You may be asked to fast for a certain period before the test.
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine, or certain medications as instructed by your doctor.
- You will need to undergo preliminary tests like ECG or blood tests.
- Wear comfortable clothing and avoid strenuous activities before the test.
Procedure Description
- Preparation: An intravenous (IV) line is inserted to allow the injection of a radioactive tracer.
- Injection: The tracer, which highlights blood flow, is injected through the IV.
- Imaging: After injection, you'll lie still on a table that slides into the PET scanner. The scanner takes detailed images of your heart at rest or during stress.
- Stress Induction: If a stress test is part of the procedure, you’ll either exercise on a treadmill or be given medication to stimulate your heart.
- Imaging During Stress: Additional images are taken while your heart is under stress to compare with the resting images.
No anesthesia is required, though you might feel discomfort from the IV needle or lying still for extended periods.
Duration
The entire procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, including preparation time.
Setting
Performed in a hospital radiology or nuclear medicine department, or in specialized outpatient clinics.
Personnel
The procedure is carried out by a nuclear medicine technician. A radiologist or a cardiologist interprets the results.
Risks and Complications
- Exposure to a small amount of radiation.
- Possible allergic reaction to the tracer.
- Rare possibilities of arrhythmias or discomfort from the stress test.
Benefits
- Provides detailed images of heart blood flow, aiding in accurate diagnosis.
- Helps in planning appropriate treatment.
- Non-invasive with minimal discomfort.
Recovery
- Little to no recovery time; you can usually resume normal activities immediately.
- Follow any specific post-procedure instructions given by your healthcare provider.
- A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to discuss the results.
Alternatives
- Other imaging tests like SPECT, CT angiography, or MRI.
- Each alternative varies in detail, exposure to radiation, and availability.
Patient Experience
You might feel a slight sting from the IV and a warm sensation from the tracer. During scanning, staying still is crucial for clear images. If a stress test is included, you may experience shortness of breath or increased heart rate. You can ask for comfort measures like a pillow or blanket, and any discomfort should be minimal and temporary.