Hybrid Imaging Virtual Workshop (02 25)-Clinical Utility

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Mouaz Mellah, the president of the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, discusses the clinical value of hybrid imaging. He explains that CT imaging is used in addition to nuclear imaging to enhance its value. CT attenuation correction is done for low-dose CT scans to correct for attenuation in nuclear images. Calcium scoring CT is a higher radiation dose CT scan used to assess atherosclerotic plaque. Hybrid imaging combines nuclear and CT imaging to locate tracer uptake and diagnose conditions such as endocarditis, vasculitis, and atherosclerosis. Mellah emphasizes the importance of assessing both ischemia and atherosclerotic burden using hybrid imaging and calcium scoring. He explains that hybrid imaging can improve specificity, reduce artifacts, and guide patient management. However, there are challenges to the adoption of hybrid imaging, such as technical issues, training requirements, and reimbursement concerns. A comprehensive document on hybrid imaging, published by professional societies, provides guidelines for equipment, protocols, reporting, and more. Mellah concludes by encouraging viewers to familiarize themselves with the document.

Keywords

hybrid imaging

nuclear cardiology

CT attenuation correction

calcium scoring

atherosclerosis

patient management