Cardiac Applications Of Positron Emission Tomography Scanning

Positron emission tomography (PET) scans use positron-emitting radionuclide tracers, which simultaneously emit 2 high-energy photons in opposite directions. These photons can be simultaneously detected (referred to as coincidence detection) by a PET scanner, comprising multiple stationary detectors that encircle the thorax. Compared with single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scans, coincidence detection offers a greater spatial resolution. PET has been investigated as an option to diagnose and evaluate patients with cardiac conditions such as coronary artery disease, left ventricular dysfunction, and cardiac sarcoidosis.