Evaluating Myocardial Perfusion Ultrasound Compared to Coronary Angiography and MRI for Diagnosing Acute Coronary Syndromes Without ST Elevation

What this Trial Is About

Patients admitted with acute coronary syndrome without ST segment elevation often undergo invasive coronary angiography to confirm myocardial infarction and guide treatment such as angioplasty or stenting. This research aims to evaluate whether myocardial perfusion imaging using contrast-enhanced ultrasound can accurately diagnose myocardial infarction or other heart conditions compared to coronary angiography and MRI. The study focuses on improving diagnosis while potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures. The study involves performing perfusion ultrasound using a contrast agent called Sonovue, which enhances imaging by mimicking red blood cells in the blood flow. This ultrasound method allows real-time assessment of blood flow in the heart muscle and is compared against coronary angiography and MRI results. Patients with acute coronary syndrome without ST elevation who meet specific clinical criteria will be examined using this technique within 72 hours of hospital admission. Participants will undergo transthoracic echocardiography with perfusion ultrasound, coronary angiography, and possibly MRI. Researchers will review ultrasound images, clinical data, and other test results to determine diagnostic accuracy. The main outcome measured is the sensitivity and specificity of the ultrasound test for diagnosing myocardial infarction. The study will monitor safety and diagnostic performance during the initial hospital phase, with results based on expert cardiologist consensus.

Contribution of Myocardial Perfusion Imaging in the Initial Assessment of Acute Coronary Syndromes Without ST Elevation for the Diagnosis of Myocardial Infarction or Differential Diagnoses