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.

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Generative AI explains echo results to heart patients

Researchers used OpenAI’s ChatGPT technology to build 100 patient-friendly echo reports, evaluating each one for accuracy, relevance and understandability. The AI reports passed the test with flying colors. 

doctor examines patient data on their tablet

FDA sees potential in new PET imaging agent for cardiac amyloidosis

Early evidence suggests a new PET imaging agent from California-based Attralus can help evaluate all varieties of systemic cardiac amyloidosis. It has now been granted the FDA's breakthrough therapy designation. 

HeartFlow introduced its next generation artificial intelligence (AI) Plaque Analysis with an interactive experience at SCCT 2024. It shows a 3D plaque model and analysis by territory across calcified, non-calcified and low-attenuation plaques. This includes viewing cross-sectional, color-coded images of each plaque type where it was quantified along the vessel. #SCCT #SCCT24 #SCCT2024

Updated HeartFlow technology offers interactive features, full integration with FFR-CT 

HeartFlow is using SCCT 2024 to introduce the world to its updated Plaque Analysis platform. “Accurately diagnosing a patient’s risk for coronary artery disease is critical for determining the best treatment," Chief Medical Officer Campbell Rogers, MD, explained.

Researchers with University College London and the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) have used a new X-ray technique, hierarchical phase-contrast tomography (HiP-CT), to capture images of the human heart in unprecedented detail. The group shared its images, as well as a full analysis, in Radiology.[1]

New imaging technique captures human heart with 'unprecedented detail'

The new images were captured at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility using hierarchical phase-contrast tomography. One specialist called them "Google Earth for the human heart." 

SCCT aims to provide common language for CCTA use with updated guidance

The Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography has developed a new expert consensus document designed to get physicians on the same page when discussing this growing technology. 

Researchers have developed and validated a new artificial intelligence (AI) model capable of producing four-chamber cardiac MR (CMR) images in seconds, publishing their findings in European Radiology Experimental.

AI creates accurate 4D heart scans in seconds

New data out of England provides cardiologists and radiologists with another reminder of AI's potential to transform healthcare. 

ASE President Ted Abraham, MD, speaking at the ASE HCM forum in 2023. Photo by Dave Fornell

Cardiologist begins term as American Society of Echocardiography's new president

Cardiologist Theodore Abraham, MD, has been an ASE member for more than two decades. He is now the organization's 2024-2025 president. 

Stretching may help reduce painful orthopedic issues among echo and interventional lab staff

Orthopedic issues are the biggest work-related injury in cardiology, but this low cost intervention may help.

Around the web

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.

The newly cleared offering, AutoChamber, was designed with opportunistic screening in mind. It can evaluate many different kinds of CT images, including those originally gathered to screen patients for lung cancer. 

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