First pass studies - Current status and limitations

Abstract

First pass radionuclide studies provide a useful non-invasive tool for evaluating cardio-pulmonary circulation and the pathologies that affect these systems. The first pass of a bolus of radioactivity can provide functional information about ventricular function, abnormalities such as cardiac shunts and abnormalities affecting the pulmonary circulation. Quantification of the severity of the abnormality is also possible, helping in decisions regarding patient management. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.