Cardiac Imaging

While cardiac ultrasound is the widely used imaging modality for heart assessments, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear imaging are also used and are often complimentary, each offering specific details about the heart other modalities cannot. For this reason the clinical question being asked often determines the imaging test that will be used.

Echocardiography expert Patricia A. Pellikka, MD, discussed the trend of increasing artificial intelligence (AI) integration in cardiac ultrasound with Cardiovascular Business at American College of Cardiology (ACC) 2023 meeting.

AI's growing impact on echocardiography

Cardiology has the second largest number of FDA-cleared AI algorithms, and many of them are for cardiac ultrasound. Echocardiography expert Patricia A. Pellikka, MD, discusses this trend and how AI is helping improve echo.

Advanced imaging does not always improve outcomes, data suggest

Although advanced imaging exams have proven benefits in defining disease severity, new data indicate that more sophisticated studies might not impact outcomes as much as previously thought. 

COVID-19 vaccine vaccination myocarditis heart damage inflammation RSNA imaging radiology cardiology

Heart inflammation remains 2 months later in some patients with COVID-19 vaccine-related myocarditis

A team of cardiologists and radiologists collaborated on the study, using advanced imaging to take a closer look at the long-term impact of vaccination. 

Experts develop cardiac MRI reference values for healthy adolescents

The newly developed reference values could have “direct implications for clinical practice” and can be used by any provider to determine whether an adolescent falls within the normal range of measurements for their age group.

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No need for updated imaging prior to major surgery in some cases, new data show

Prior chest imaging can sometimes be just as predictive of adverse events after surgery as updated imaging, according to new data set to be presented at the annual conference of the American College of Cardiology on March 5. 

A figure from the ASE pediatric POCUS guidelines showing parasternal short-axis view demonstrating RV dilatation with bowing of the septum into the left ventricle, indicating pulmonary hypertension in this child with shock and pertussis.

New ASE guidance examines cardiac POCUS in children

The recommendations were developed by a writing group comprised of experts from different specialties, offering an array of perspectives and approaches.

Dual source CT scanners shown to expedite treatment in emergency settings

Dual source CT scanners can eliminate the need for beta blockers to control heart rates during coronary CTA exams.  

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Fatal accident calls MRI safety standards into question—are more regulations needed?

There are a number of well-intended recommendations for preventing MRI injuries, but many of them stop short of implementing safety requirements.

Around the web

Positron, a New York-based nuclear imaging company, will now provide Upbeat Cardiology Solutions with advanced PET/CT systems and services. 

The nuclear imaging isotope shortage of molybdenum-99 may be over now that the sidelined reactor is restarting. ASNC's president says PET and new SPECT technologies helped cardiac imaging labs better weather the storm.

CMS has more than doubled the CCTA payment rate from $175 to $357.13. The move, expected to have a significant impact on the utilization of cardiac CT, received immediate praise from imaging specialists.

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