Is there a particular patient population for which PET imaging is most beneficial?
Haddix: PET is particularly beneficial in patients with a BMI greater than 32, those with protruding stomachs and barrel chests, and in women with large breasts. The high energy of rubidium is especially good for transmitting through large dense objects and is more superior than SPECT tracers for those on the heavier size. Last year, we conducted a correlation study, examining patients who had had an equivocal nuclear test and then went on to have a PET scan. In those with a BMI greater than 32, PET scans were normal and those patients did not have to undergo catheterization. Also, we are sending more people to PET who are scheduled for a nuclear pharmaceutical stress test, but meet the criteria for PET.
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