HYBRID EVENT: You can participate in person at Rome, Italy or Virtually from your home or work.

3rd Edition of International Heart Congress

June 05-07,2025 | Hybrid Event

June 05 -07, 2025 | Rome, Italy
Heart Congress 2023

Utilizing conditional probability and bayes’ theorem for harmonizing multi-modality cardiac imaging results

Timothy F Christian, Speaker at Cardiology Conferences
Albert Einstein College of Medicine, United States
Title : Utilizing conditional probability and bayes’ theorem for harmonizing multi-modality cardiac imaging results

Abstract:

The use of multiple noninvasive tests in a patient for a specific question in cardiology is becoming more common. While it is expected that each new piece of test information will align, the reality is that each test carries strengths and weaknesses that generate a profile of accuracy and associated false positive and false negative results. When two non-gold-standard tests produce non-concordant results, it can be difficult to chart a clinical course.    Clinical guidelines for cardiac imaging rely heavily on conditional probability in the form of pre-test clinical risk assessment to maximize the incremental value of the test result. That risk classification is often the main determinant of appropriateness. Bayesian analysis of conditional probability allows the distillation of multiple pieces of information into a single probability of the presence or absence of disease. Probability becomes the common language linking the information.  Three noninvasive tests that generate multiple data outcome points will be examined:  coronary CT and CT fractional flow reserve, Exercise ECG and SPECT myocardial perfusion, and positron emission tomography with visual analysis and quantitation of absolute myocardial blood flow. Conditional probability will be used to incorporate all of the variables generated by each of these modalities that produce measurable results into a single probability of coronary artery disease.  In this manner, all of the prior information on a single patient is accounted for in the final test interpretation.

Audience Takeaway

  • Attendees will come to understand the principles of conditional probability
  • Apply conditional probability principles to their clinical practice
  • Understand how conditional probability can be used to provide synergism with heterogenous test results.
  • Attendees should be able to better synthesize multiple pieces of clinical data for a single patient and establish a post-test probability of the disease in question in a methodical manner rather than guessing.

Biography:

Dr Christian received his MD degree from Albany Medical College and MPA from Harvard University.  He completed his fellowship in cardiology at the Mayo Clinic and was a faculty member in the cardiology division for a number of years, achieving the rank of Professor of Medicine.  His work has been centered on noninvasive cardiac imaging with expertise in cardiac MRI, cardiac CT, and nuclear cardiology.  Research focuses have included acute imaging for chest pain, animal models of absolute myocardial blood flow by MRI and CT, and statistical methodologies for the application of imaging to clinical questions.  He has over 100 peer-reviewed publications.

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