Using Stress Echo and CMR to Diagnose Heart Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Sicari Rosa, Pingitore Alessandro, Aquaro Giovanni, Pasanisi Emilio G, Lombardi Massimo, Picano Eugenio
Primary Institution: CNR, Institute of Clinical Physiology, Pisa, Italy
Hypothesis
The study aims to assess the feasibility and accuracy of an integrated stress imaging algorithm with echo first and second-line Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) in selected cases.
Conclusion
A sequential functional stress imaging algorithm with stress echo first and stress CMR in selected cases is feasible, clinically realistic and allows an efficient, radiation-free diagnosis of CAD.
Supporting Evidence
- The sequential algorithm showed a sensitivity of 76% and specificity of 87%.
- Coronary angiography identified significant CAD in 88 patients.
- Stress echo was diagnostic in 110 patients.
Takeaway
Doctors can use a combination of two tests, stress echo and CMR, to better find heart problems without using radiation.
Methodology
The study involved 143 patients who underwent stress echocardiography and coronary angiography, with some referred to CMR based on the results of the echo.
Potential Biases
There may be risks of bias due to the subjective nature of interpreting echocardiographic results.
Limitations
The study's results may be affected by the high number of patients on anti-ischemic therapy, which can reduce the sensitivity of wall motion analysis.
Participant Demographics
The study included 143 patients, with a mean age of 64 years, consisting of 101 males and 42 females.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI 66% to 85%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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