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T. Pandey (ed.), Imaging in Stem Cell Transplant and Cell-based Therapy,
Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, DOI 10.1007/978-3-319-51833-6_9
Chapter 9
Bone Marrow Cell Therapy for Ischemic
Heart Disease and the Role of Cardiac
Imaging in Evaluation of Outcomes
Anweshan Samanta, Muhammad R. Afzal, and Buddhadeb Dawn
Cardiac imaging, in its many forms, is an indispensable tool for clinicians and
scientists to assess the structure and function of the heart, both in physiological and
pathological states. Over the recent years, 2-dimensional (2D) and 3D echocardio-
graphy, left ventriculography (LVG), computed tomography (CT), magnetic reso-
nance imaging (MRI), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT),
and positron emission tomography (PET) have transitioned from being concept
techniques to integral components of cardiovascular healthcare delivery. Today, car-
diac imaging plays a major role in everyday practice, in outpatient clinics as well as
inpatient services. Imaging modalities are now ubiquitous; simpler versions like
transthoracic 2D echocardiography (TTE) equipment or handheld machines are
found virtually everywhere, while more sophisticated gadgets like cardiac MRI and
SPECT are found in most large hospitals. The relatively easy availability of these
powerful devices has transformed modern day cardiac care.
Along with these advances in imaging, newer options with medical therapy in
recent years have helped reduce the impact of an acute myocardial infarction (MI),
with marked improvement in patient outcomes. With better access to healthcare,
patients are being transported to an ER and provided superior care, faster than ever
before [ 1 ]. This enables physicians to minimize the damage from the acute event,
and thereby improve long-term outcomes for the patient. Over the past three
decades, patients with ischemic heart disease have also benefitted tremendously
from the discovery of revolutionary drugs, such as β-blockers, angiotensin con-
verting enzyme inhibitors, and statins. These drugs have had profound impact on
A. Samanta, M.B.B.S. • M.R. Afzal, M.B.B.S. • B. Dawn, M.D. (*)
Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Kansas
Medical Center and Hospital, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, 1001 Eaton, MS 3006, Kansas City, KS
66160, USA
Midwest Stem Cell Therapy Center, University of Kansas Medical Center and Hospital,
Kansas City, KS, USA
e-mail: [email protected]