Planar and SPECT radiopharmaceuticals in nuclear cardiology: Current status and limitations

Abstract

The branch of nuclear cardiology is ever expanding with newer indications for imaging the heart. Technical advancement in the instrumentation together with better radiopharmaceuticals has revolutionized the field of nuclear cardiology. Assessment of myocardial perfusion, function and metabolism using radiopharmaceuticals is a well-established method. There is a volume of literature supporting the role of radionuclide imaging in the assessment of a patient with suspected or diagnosed heart disease. Many different classes of radionuclide myocardial imaging agents are available. However, all these compounds have some advantages and disadvantages [1-6], and the final responsibility for choosing the right agent and protocols depends on the physician in charge. In general the team involved in providing a nuclear cardiology service should be made aware of the procedural guidelines for the use of radiopharmaceuticals [7] (Table 19.1). © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.