Prognostic Performance of Myocardial Perfusion and Function

Since its beginnings in the early 1970s, clinical nuclear cardiology has evolved substantially, gaining both technical sophistication and enhanced imaging capabilities. In parallel to these developments, an extensive literature supporting its clinical utility and cost-effectiveness has developed. Current single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) allows for objective measurement of myocardial function and relative regional myocardial perfusion at rest and stress, providing accurate risk assessment in a wider variety of patient populations. The evidence for similar prognostic data derived from positron emission tomography (PET) is rapidly growing. This chapter highlights the prognostic utility of these two modalities and illustrates how this information can guide patient management decisions.