Dialogues in Cardiovascular Medicine - Vol 12 . No. 2 . 2007





Clinical role of advanced imaging in cardiology



     The last decade has seen an unprecedented development in imaging technologies that are able to noninvasively characterize cardiovascular conditions. At the forefront of these modalities have been cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) and multidetector computed tomography angiography (MDCTA). Linked to advances in software and hardware, current CMR scanners are able to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the cardiac patient with a range of information on anatomy, function, perfusion, viability, tissue characterization, flow patterns, as well as coronary and vascular angiography. MDCTA is able to provide accurate characterization of coronary luminal stenosis and plaque burden in a short scan, frequently avoiding the need for subsequent x-ray angiography with its attendant risks and complications—particularly in the intermediate risk group. Developments in echocardiography have enabled better tissue characterization, real-time three-dimensional visualization, and, using specific contrast agents, assessment of myocardial perfusion. Tissue Doppler techniques have facilitated better understanding of myocardial mechanics— particularly useful, eg, in assessment of dyssynchrony. In this review article we provide a brief overview of how these techniques work and discuss current and future applications. We highlight the strengths, as well as limitations, of these imaging modalities, and discuss when to consider these tests in clinical practice...






© 2010 LES LABORATOIRES SERVIER, an incorporated company of SERVIER All Rights Reserved - Updates