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.

Revved-up CT Speeds New Growth

More than one-quarter of CT systems installed in the United States have multi-slice technology, according to a report last month from IMV Medical Information Division.

X-ray's Vision for 2003

The advance of digital radiography is among the technological highlights at RSNA 2003, as vendors add more versatility and features to systems for the benefit of healthcare providers and patients.

Revved-up CT Speeds New Growth

With the majority of planned CT purchases opting for multislice technology, the number of CT procedures is expected to grow beyond the estimated 45.4 million performed in this country in 2002 - a 15 percent hike over 2001.

X-ray's Vision for 2003

The advance of digital radiography is among the technological highlights at RSNA 2003, as vendors add more versatility and features to systems for the benefit of healthcare providers and patients.

Siemens aligns with St. James Hospital and Health Centers

Siemens Medical Solutions will partner with St. James Hospital and Health Centers, of Olympia Fields, Ill., to develop a new state-of-the-art Heart and Vascular Institute.

North American Society for Cardiac Imaging hosts 31st annual meeting

Dallas, Texas is the location of Cardiovascular Imaging 2003, the 31st annual meeting and scientific session of the North American Society for Cardiac Imaging (NASCI) this month.

CME cardiac imaging teleconference

Professionals of the cardiovascular imaging community can participate in an upcoming teleconference, The Revolution in Cardiac Imaging: Adapting the Clinical Mindset, Saturday, Oct. 4 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. EST.

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.