Digital perfusion images for estimating redistribution of pulmonary perfusion in patients with congestive heart failure

For estimating redistribution of pulmonary perfusion in congestive heart failure (CHF), Tc-99m MAA pulmonary perfusion images were computerized to digital perfusion images (DPLs), and 100%-70% discount area was defined as hyperperfusion area (H). Various types of DPI were obtained from patients with various degree of CHF; however, they were simply classified into six types according to patterns of H, that is, from basal triangle to apical circle. DPIs changed according to aggravation and improvement of CHF. Patients without H in the lower zone suffered from refractory CHF, and their 2-year mortality was high (59%; 13 of 22). DPIs were useful for determining therapeutic policy and estimating prognosis of patients with CHF