Prognostic validation of an algorithm to convert myocardial perfusion SPECT imaging data from a 12-segment model to a 17-segment model.
BACKGROUND
A 17-segment model has become the standard for interpreting myocardial perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Methods for converting pre-existing databases from 12-segment models to the 17-segment model are needed for ongoing prognostic studies.


RESULTS
To develop the conversion algorithm, 150 consecutive SPECT studies (82 abnormal) were read by both a 12-segment and the standard 17-segment models. Summed stress scores (SSSs) were calculated from a 17-segment model derived from the 12-segment data and compared to those of the standard 17-segment model. The effect of the conversion algorithm on prognostic data derived from the 12-segment model was evaluated in 25,876 patients from the Duke Nuclear Cardiology Database, including a sample of 3,205 patients with known covariates for adjusted analysis. The derived 17-segment SSS from the 12-segment model was highly correlated (R = 0.99) to the SSS from the standard 17-segment model. In both unadjusted and adjusted analysis, there was no difference in the prognostic information.


CONCLUSIONS
An algorithm for conversion of 12-segment perfusion scores to 17-segment scores has been developed which is highly correlated to visual interpretation by the 17-segment model with nearly identical prognostic information.
Salerno
Michael
M
Department of Medicine (Cardiology), University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
Elliot
Laine
L
Shaw
Linda K
LK
Piccini
Jonathan P
JP
Pagnanelli
Robert
R
Borges-Neto
Salvador
S
D000465:Algorithms; D002309:Cardiology / Q000379:methods; D015331:Cohort Studies; D017023:Coronary Angiography / Q000379:methods; D016208:Databases, Factual; D003643:Death; D006321:Heart / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D015233:Models, Statistical; D055414:Myocardial Perfusion Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D009206:Myocardium / Q000473:pathology*; D016017:Odds Ratio; D011379:Prognosis; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012306:Risk; D015899:Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon / Q000379:methods*