Measurement of myocardial perfusion and cardiac output using intravenous injection methods by ultrafast (cine) computed tomography.

Ultrafast (or cine) computed tomography (CT) uses a novel scanning electron beam technology to obtain multi-level images of the beating heart in rapid succession. Recent investigations have demonstrated that it can be used to define the transit of iodinated contrast media through the cardiac chambers and myocardium. Using classical indicator dilution principles and rapid intravenous injection of iodinated contrast media, ultrafast CT can quantify cardiac output and, to a limited extent, myocardial perfusion. A caveat to the application requires that careful calibration be made on a subject-by-subject basis prior to quantification of cardiac output. Although global myocardial perfusion and flow reserve can be evaluated by ultrafast CT, spatially variable imaging artifacts may limit the application in all regions of the left ventricular myocardium. Advances in study design, image reconstruction and post-image processing continue. Ultrafast CT technology offers a means to define cardiac anatomy, function and flow in man rapidly, conveniently and accurately in a noninvasive fashion employing intravenous contrast media injection.