ECG-gated SPECT for an integrated assessment of left ventricular function, perfusion, and viability

When used for myocardial perfusion imaging, ECG-gated SPECT acquisition yields wall motion, wall thickening, end-diastolic and end-systolic left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction to be calculated without a greater additional effort. This paper gives an overview of the methods and pitfalls of gated SPECT and the validity of data and findings obtained with this method. Also, the method's diagnostic and prognostic relevance are shown by means of clinical studies. (orig.)