Several different heart scans are available to help diagnose and monitor heart conditions. These scans use various technologies to visualize the heart's structure, function, and blood flow.
Here's a breakdown of some common heart scans:
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Echocardiogram (Echo): This non-invasive test uses ultrasound waves to create moving pictures of your heart. It can show the size and shape of your heart, how well your heart valves are working, and how strongly your heart is pumping. There are different types of echocardiograms including Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) and Stress echocardiogram.
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Cardiac Computed Tomography (CT): A Cardiac CT scan uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the heart. It can help detect calcium buildup in the coronary arteries (coronary calcium scan), blockages in the arteries (CT angiography), and other heart abnormalities.
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Nuclear Cardiac Stress Test: This test involves injecting a small amount of radioactive tracer into the bloodstream. A special camera then detects the tracer as it flows through the heart. Images are taken while you are at rest and again after exercise or after being given a medication that simulates exercise. This helps to determine if there is adequate blood flow to the heart muscle. Examples include:
- Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT): A type of nuclear imaging that provides 3D images of the heart, showing blood flow and heart muscle damage.
- Cardiac Positron Emission Tomography (PET): Another nuclear imaging technique that can assess blood flow to the heart, identify areas of heart muscle damage, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments. PET scans often offer more detailed and accurate images than SPECT scans.
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Coronary Angiogram (Heart Catheterization): This invasive procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into a blood vessel in your arm or leg and guiding it to your heart. A contrast dye is injected through the catheter, and X-ray images are taken to visualize the coronary arteries. This test is used to identify blockages in the arteries.
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Cardiac MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This test uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart. It can show the size and shape of the heart, the thickness of the heart muscle, and any areas of damage or inflammation. Cardiac MRI is particularly useful for evaluating complex heart conditions.
These heart scans help healthcare professionals diagnose a wide range of heart problems and guide treatment decisions. The specific scan recommended will depend on your individual symptoms and medical history.
