Stress MRI v Stress MPS

[Prada47]

Hello I have been following the thread by Del on Stress MRI Scan and I have a question on MRI v MPS ( Myocardial Profusion Scan ) I am on the waiting list for an MRI ( stress ) even though I have had an MPS (stress) and Angiogram. The reason for the MRI is to decide which artery to tackle my LAD or my RCA now having read the post about a profusion I think I may know the answer.

In a letter from Cardiology it says " from the MPS it reveals there is a total Perfusion Defect affecting 16% of the Myocardium 4 % is reversible and 12% is fixed.

So from that I assume that a Perfusion Defect is the Muscle (heart) isn't getting a blood supply to 16% and by opening the LAD and RCA the 4% will be able to contribute to the pumping action of the LV and easing my SOB and, out of the blue Angina discomfort. I may have that wrong, but think it's about correct !!

I have had 500mg of Amoxicllin added to my Daily Dolly Mixtures (thanks Michael )trying to rid me of a cough which would be not very good in the MRI scanner, and it's not very good for my wife's sleep either. Anyone else gone from MPS to MRI for further diagnosis ?? my EF is 37% and Heart Failure is Moderate to Severe which is inter changeable. I didn't know I knew so many TLAs LOL

regards Frank W

[black_and_gold]

Frank, you're right. It means that 16% of your heart muscle is affect by poor blood supply. Which has lead to your heart not being able to pump very well through lack of oxygen. But that opening up the vessels will only allow 4% of this muscle to recover, as the remainder is damaged to an extent that cannot recover, even though oxygen flow will be improved. So yes, over time, this 4% will recover and be able to help towards the overall pumping action of the heart to some extent.

I don't know why you are listed for an MRI since you've already had an MPS, but CMR (MRI) I believe is the gold standard imaging modality for discerning viability of the muscle tissue as it can pick out scar amongst poorly functioning muscle. It will give them a better understanding of the vessels that will be worthwhile tackling in order to give you the best result.

Good luck. And all the best.

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

An MPS scan differs in that it falls under the Department of Nuclear Medicine rather than Imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI, etc.). A minute dose of a radioactive isotope is injected that highlights parts of the heart. The test is usually done in two stages – stress and rest. You will probably be in the department for 4+ hours so take a book with you. You will be advised on the protocol regarding food and drink – usually it is no food for six hours and clear fluids in the hours up to the scans. Like all stress tests caffeine should be avoided for 48 hours beforehand, e.g. coffee, tea, chocolate – check labels if in doubt.

The images are taken with a special camera.

A friend who had this done said it was easier than an MRI as is was far quieter and the isotope did not cause the hot flush she got from the iodine dye used for the MRI. Although the radiation dose is low with a short half-life they usually advise avoiding babies and infants for 48 hours after.

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to MichaelJH]

Apologies didn't read your post properly. Having read Physics for my first degree and been involved with the aerospace industry I have worked on imaging in the past.