SIGNIFICANT GASTRIC REFLUX OF TECHNETIUM-99M-MIBI IN SPECT MYOCARDIAL IMAGING

We present a case in which significant gastric reflux of Tc-99m-methoxy isobutylisonitrile (MIBI) was observed in a patient who underwent stress/rest Tc-99m-MIBI SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging for suspected coronary artery disease. The intense gastric activity partially obscured myocardial uptake of Tc-99m MIBI, particularly in the inferolateral wall of the left ventricle. The presence of significant gastric activity should be considered when performing SPECT myocardial imaging with Tc-99m MIBI, and, where necessary, steps should be taken to minimize this activity prior to commencing acquisition.