Myocardial contrast delayed enhancement with 64-slice multidetector CT after acute MI

Sato A et al have assessed the role of myocardial contrast delayed enhancement with 64-slice multidetector computerized tomography (MDCT) after acute myocardial infarction (MI) in prediction of clinical outcome [Prognostic Value of Myocardial Contrast Delayed Enhancement With 64-Slice Multidetector Computed Tomography After Acute Myocardial Infarction. J Am Coll Cardiol, 2012; 59:730-738]. Among the 102 patients, nine died and twelve had heart failure during the study period. The size of delayed enhancement on myocardial contrast CT was found to be a significant independent predictor for cardiac events after adjustment for TIMI (Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction) risk score, left ventricular ejection fraction and total defect score on technetium scan. The study was performed immediately after successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). MDCT was performed immediately after the final check angio of PCI procedure without administering any further contrast for the CT. Repeat angiograms were performed at six months after the PCI. Infarct area was defined as a hyperenhancement with a signal intensity higher than two standard deviations above the mean signal intensity of normal myocardium remote from the infarct location.