Risk stratification of coronary artery disease using radionuclides. Current status of clinical practice

Abstract

A discussion is presented on the current use of radionuclides for evaluation of coronary artery disease in relation to other available techniques. The review is focused on coronary artery disease risk stratification employing single photon emission computed tomography and positron emission tomography, as well as on ischemic cardiomyopathy and myocardial viability applications.Concepts are presented regarding coronary blood flow reserve, diagnostic and prognostic values, criteria for its appropriate use, as well as current methods to reduce unnecessary patient irradiation, in order to optimize nuclear cardiology practice.