Evaluating Cardiac Function With Dynamic Imaging Techniques and Contrast Media
OwnerJens Sorenseninventor
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Abstract
Methods suitable for use in diagnostic imaging or to generate a central circulatory turnover (CCT) index for an evaluation of cardiac function of a patient are provided. The resultant CCT index will allow the clinician to integrate information reflecting the diastolic function of the heart. A computer software and kit for the evaluation of cardiac function in a patient as well as the use of a CCT index for an evaluation of cardiac function of a patient are also provided.
Claims43
A method of generating a central circulatory turnover (CCT) index for an evaluation of cardiac function of a patient, comprising the steps of:
- (v) at least one contrast media, wherein the contrast media passes thru the heart and lungs of the patient;
- (vi) at least one imaging modality capable of tracking and quantifying the concentration of the contrast media as the contrast media passes thru the heart and lungs;
- (vii) retrieving a serial image sequence and a scanning time of the contrast media as the contrast media passes thru the heart and lungs, wherein a mean pulmonary transit time (MPTT) is calculated from the scanning time;
- (viii) determining a heart rate (HR) of the patient from the serial image sequence and MPTT;
- and
- (v) calculating the CCT index of the patient.
The use of a CCT index for in vivo diagnostics or imaging by an imaging modality such as MRI, CT, ultrasonography, echocardiography, or radioactive tracers used by PET and gamma-cameras for diseases associated with angiogenesis and the cardiovascular system of a patient.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.