Cardiac PET Advanced Virtual Workshop (December 7-8, 2024)-Principles of Myocardial Blood Flow Quantification

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Rob DeKemp, an imaging physicist at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, discusses the principles of myocardial blood flow quantification. He explains the importance of myocardial blood flow and its limitations in traditional relative perfusion imaging methods. He introduces the concept of absolute blood flow imaging and how it can improve the diagnosis and management of coronary vascular diseases. DeKemp also discusses the microsphere method, which is used to measure blood flow in animal models, and how it can be adapted for PET imaging. He explains the two models used for quantifying blood flow – the tracer trapping model and the tracer exchange model – and the equations used to calculate blood flow values. He also provides practical tips for setting up a blood flow measurement program, including scanner selection, image reconstruction and analysis protocols, and quality assurance measures. DeKemp emphasizes the importance of proper PET-CT alignment, motion correction, and accurate placement of tissue contours and arterial input function regions. He concludes by summarizing the key points to consider for a reliable blood flow quantification program.

Keywords

myocardial blood flow

absolute blood flow imaging

PET imaging

coronary vascular diseases

tracer exchange model

blood flow quantification