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.

Carotid Conundrum: Role of Ultrasound Screening

Despite recommendations to the contrary, screening for carotid artery stenosis remains prevalent. Check out the pros and cons.

Overnight subspecialty coverage pushes CT use higher in community EDs

Overnight imaging subspecialty coverageas opposed to a more traditional model of on-call preliminary interpretations by a residentresulted in an increase in CT utilization in community emergency departments (EDs), according to a study published in the September issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology.

ESC: Ultra-fast CT scanner put to test for coronary blockages

A 320-detector CT scanner can accurately identify which people with chest pain need, or dont need, an invasive procedure such as cardiac angioplasty or bypass surgery to restore blood flow to the heart, according to the results of the CORE 320 study presented Aug. 28 at the European Society of Cardiology Congress in Munich.

ESC: DeFACTO misses mark but shows promise for diagnosing CAD

DeFACTO, a study designed to assess the performance of a noninvasive method for gauging the physiologic significance of coronary artery disease (CAD), failed to meet its prespecified primary endpoint, researchers reported Aug. 26 at the European Society of Cardiology Congress in Munich. But that may be the result of the studys high standards, according to the author of an editorial that accompanied the studys simultaneous publication online in the Journal of the American Medical Association, who agreed with the researchers that the approach holds promise.

CAC imaging bests other markers for intermediate-risk patients

Coronary artery calcium (CAC) provided superior discrimination and risk reclassification compared with other risk markersankle-brachial index, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and family historyall of which are independent predictors of incident coronary heart disease/cardiovascular disease in intermediate-risk individuals, according to a study in the Aug. 22/29 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine.

Getting Creative with Managing Contrast Media

With the help of barcoding and radiofrequency identification technologies, managing contrast media agents may be a less daunting task.

Keeping Low-risk CAD Evaluations Low Cost, Too

By ruling out patients at low risk of coronary artery disease, tools such as SPECT may eliminate unnecessary treatments and their associated costs.

Cardiac MR: Finding a Niche in Diagnostics

Recent studies have documented the efficacy of cardiac MR, prompting some to say its role will expand. Others see obstacles ahead, though.

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