FDG PET scan for myocardial viability

An FDG PET scan for myocardial viability compares glucose use with blood flow to identify heart muscle that may still be living. This information can help the cardiology team consider whether an area could benefit from improved blood supply.

After reduced blood flow or a heart attack, some heart muscle may contract poorly but remain metabolically active. FDG uptake in an area with reduced blood flow can suggest viable, or living, tissue. Scarred muscle generally does not show the same metabolic pattern. The result is considered with symptoms, heart function, coronary anatomy, and other cardiac tests.

This examination does not by itself decide whether you need a procedure. It helps answer a specific question about the potential of weakened heart muscle.

Preparation often involves a planned meal or glucose adjustment so the heart uses FDG in a way that makes the images useful. Follow the centre's exact instructions rather than changing diabetes medicines yourself. Report diabetes, kidney problems, pregnancy or possible pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergies, and recent cardiac symptoms. Expect an injection, a waiting period, and scanning while lying still.

Get urgent help for chest pressure, severe breathlessness, fainting, new sweating with nausea, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw, or back. Contact the imaging team before attending if your glucose is difficult to control or you cannot follow the preparation plan.

Ask what blood-flow test will be paired with FDG imaging, how medicines should be timed, what result would change the treatment discussion, and when the findings will be reviewed.