Abstract 340: Evaluating the Use of Pharmacological Stress Agents During Single-photon Emission Computed Tomography Myocardial Perfusion Imaging Tests After Inadequate Exercise Stress Test

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate how pharmacological stress agents (PSAs) are used during single-photon emission computed tomography myocardial perfusion imaging (SPECT-MPI) for patients (pts) with an inadequate exercise stress test (EST). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. One-on-one telephone interviews with nuclear imaging center staff were used to develop an online survey, which was administered to evaluate patterns/processes around PSA use during SPECT-MPI in pts with inadequate EST. Eligible survey participants included nuclear technicians, nurses, physicians, and imaging center managers/directors with sufficient familiarity with SPECT-MPI/use of PSAs. Primary endpoint measures included gaining insights on how imaging centers convert to PSAs after inadequate EST and associated resource use. Results: Of 50 participating centers, 35 (70%) used only regadenoson (REG), 3 (6%) only adenosine (ADN), 3 (6%) REG and ADN, 7 (14%) REG and dipyridamole (DP), and 2 (4%) all 3 agents for converting pts after inadequate EST. Most centers (94%) used protocols to guide conversions. Post-test monitoring, including monitoring of pt performance and managing adverse reactions after completion of SPECT-MPI following PSA, was not conducted by 66%, 38%, and 56% of centers using REG, ADN, and DP, respectively. Same-day conversion occurred for 92%, 89%, and 98% of pts for REG, ADN, DP, respectively; the mean (standard deviation) number of pts converted in the past 30 days were 29.6 (44.1), 9.3 (9.9), and 1.9 (1.8), respectively. After an inadequate EST, average pt wait times to receiving REG, ADN, or DP were 4.9, 12.4 or 17.4 min, respectively; among centers using REG, 60% administered the PSA within a mean of 3 min, compared to 11% (1 center) using DP and no centers using ADN. Nearly 100%, 38%, and 11% of REG, ADN, and DP centers, respectively, reported that PSA administration was “not at all complex.” Of the centers using >1 PSA, 92% found REG to be the most preferred PSA (overall) among staff. Total staff time (aggregating time for multiple staff members who may have worked concurrently at each step) required from PSA transition to post-test monitoring was shortest for REG ( Table ). Conclusions: Imaging center staff prefer REG and its use is associated with operational efficiencies during SPECT-MPI after inadequate EST.