Patient Education
Advanced Cardiac Imaging

Advanced imaging modalities such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans are utilized by USC Cardiovascular Medicine specialists to obtain detailed images of the heart. These imaging techniques are noninvasive procedures utilizing different techniques to image cardiovascular structures. MRIs use both radio waves and magnetic fields, while CT scans are compiled using X-rays to create an assortment of images of the heart. Each modality is particularly adept at answering different diagnostic questions.

MRIs produce images which demonstrate the movement of cardiac tissue in multiple views. The modality can be used to diagnose Heart Failure , Coronary Heart Disease, Septal Defects, Chamber thrombi and valvular pathologies. Unique capabilities of the technique allow visualization of Congenital Malformations, Cardiac Tumors, and the constitution of the pericardium and other tissue surrounding the heart. In addition, MRIs allow USC Cardiovascular Medicine physicians to observe the heart in relation to other thoracic and abdominal structures and organs, imparting a comprehensive view of the cardiovascular system. Such information is particularly important in patients preparing for Cardiothoracic Surgery .

Cardiac CT Scans, especially Multi-Detector Computed Tomography Scans (MDCT) produce vivid, detailed 3-dimensional images of the heart. This modality is able to visualize the structure and function of the four chambers and valves of the heart with high resolution. The greatest strength of CT Scans is the ability to directly visualize the presence or absence of Coronary Artery Disease without the need of an interventional procedure or the use of an iodine-based dye. In addition, Electron Beam CT (EBCT) Scans are able to quantify the degree of coronary calcification and produce a Coronary calcium Score. The Calcium Score can help Cardiovascular Medicine professionals evaluate the presence and degree of Coronary Artery Disease in a patient. Another distinctive feature of cardiac CT Scans is their ability to demonstrate the coronary anatomy in relation to the rest of the heart, allowing cardiologists to accurately map the blood supply to various regions as well as detect anomalies and congenital variations. Besides highlighting the coronary vasculature, cardiac CT Scans can visualize other major blood vessels, allowing the cardiologist to probe for disease in the main thoroughfares of the cardiovascular system.

The USC Division Cardiovascular Medicine is proud to offer patients the expertise of a rigorously trained and highly decorated group of Cardiovascular and Radiological physicians, who enjoy access to state of the art imaging facilities including 3 Tesla MRI Scanners and 64 Slice MDCT Scanners.