Anatomy
TOPICS

Summary: Cardiovascular imaging

1. Many different types of imaging can be performed to evaluate the heart, including radiography, ultrasound, angiography, MR and CT.

2. Selection of the most appropriate imaging can be facilitated by use of algorithms, such as those in the ACR Appropriateness Criteria

3. Knowledge of the location of chambers and valves of the heart on radiography is important in initial evaluation, as this is often the first imaging done.

4. Understanding of the 3D location of heart chambers is vital to interpretation of cardiac echo images

5. Timing of contrast administration is important in performing CT angiography of the heart

6. CT can be used to generate detailed 3D reconstructions of heart structures including coronary arteries.