The use of high activity 99mTc labeled red blood cells for ventricular contraction measurement with an unsophisticated cardiac synchronizer linked to a gamma camera

Abstract

The availability of a 99mTc red blood cell labeling procedure, using a commercial kit to label at high activity level a small volume of autologus red blood cells, permitted measuring 131 ventricular ejection fractions and regional contraction abnormalities with a non-invasive technique. An individual cardiac synchronizer was connected to the patient to trigger counts and picture recording from a gamma camera. In 32 left ventricular contraction patterns, both selective contrast angiography and scintigraphic techniques were performed. Good correlation was demonstrated between the two methods of ejection fraction measurement (r=0.86) and also in regional contraction abnormalities. Results may be improved by using more expensive equipment, but the technique proved to be suitable, nevertheless, especially in the screening and follow-up of left ventricular abnormalities.