Measurement of Physical Changes in the Myocardium for Development of Novel Methods for Diagnosing Ischemia

The purpose of this review is to offer a concise discussion of existing data describing changes in the physical properties of the myocardium in response to ischemia. We argue that these measurable changes may be used as a basis for the development of newer diagnostic methods. Because of the challenges involved in the timely and accurate diagnosis of ischemia, newer methods-or those that will complement existing methods-are needed. Altered physical property surveillance encompasses concepts and theories that may be utilized for developing methods for detecting ischemia by sensing the resultant changes in the physical properties of the myocardium.