Microvascular Disease in Women – Utility of Cardiac PET – Online

Online Video

Presented by Renee P. Bullock-Palmer, MD

1 Hour

1 Credit

Fellows, Non-physicians, Nurses, Other Clinicians & Physicians

Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) is an important yet under-recognized cause of ischemic symptoms in women, often occurring in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease. This Grand Rounds session will review the mechanisms, epidemiology, and diagnostic challenges of microvascular disease in women, with emphasis on the utility of cardiac positron emission tomography (PET). Quantitative myocardial blood flow (MBF) and myocardial flow reserve (MFR) measurement using PET has emerged as the gold standard for detecting CMD and assessing its prognostic significance. Through review of key studies, clinical guidelines, and illustrative case examples, participants will gain practical insight into integrating PET findings into the diagnostic and therapeutic approach for women with ischemia and non-obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA).

Dr. Renee P. Bullock-Palmer is a highly respected cardiologist with a special focus on nuclear cardiology and advanced cardiac imaging. She currently serves as the Director of Non-Invasive Cardiac Imaging and the Women’s Heart Center at Deborah Heart and Lung Center. With extensive training in nuclear cardiology, cardiovascular CT, and echocardiography, she has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in women’s cardiovascular health. Her clinical expertise and research have led to groundbreaking insights in coronary microvascular disease, positioning her as a leader in the integration of cardiac PET in diagnosing CMD.

Learning Objectives:

Describe the pathophysiologic mechanisms and clinical significance of coronary microvascular dysfunction, particularly in women presenting with ischemia and non-obstructive coronary artery disease.
Describe the pathophysiologic mechanisms and clinical significance of coronary microvascular dysfunction, particularly in women presenting with ischemia and non-obstructive coronary artery disease.
Apply evidence-based strategies incorporating PET findings into clinical decision-making for women with suspected INOCA or microvascular angina.

Accreditation Statement:

Deborah Heart and Lung Center designates this Live Activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s) ™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Deborah Heart and Lung Center is accredited by the Medical Society of New Jersey to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Disclosure Statement:

None of the planners, faculty, or the speaker, for this educational activity have relevant financial relationships to disclose with ineligible companies whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients.

Original Release Date 1.09.2026

Termination Date: 1.10.2027

Originally this course was presented Live on 11.20.2025