Cardiac CT Made Easy: A Comprehensive Guide for Healthcare Professionals

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides detailed cross-sectional images of the heart and its surrounding structures. It is widely used in the diagnosis and management of various cardiac conditions, offering valuable information for timely and accurate decision-making.

Anatomy and Physiology of the Heart

Left Atrium: The left atrium is the chamber that collects oxygenated blood from the lungs through the pulmonary veins.

Cardiac CT Made Easy: An Introduction to Cardiovascular Multidetector Computed Tomography, Second Edition

by Roberto Sandoval

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	72242 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	390 pages

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Left Ventricle: The left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood to the aorta and the systemic circulation.

Right Atrium: The right atrium collects deoxygenated blood from the body through the superior and inferior vena cava.

Right Ventricle: The right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood to the pulmonary artery for oxygenation in the lungs.

Cardiac CT Protocols

Cardiac CT is performed using specialized protocols to optimize image quality. These protocols typically involve:

• ECG-gated scan: Capture images at precise intervals of the cardiac cycle.
• Contrast media administration: Enhance visualization of blood vessels and cardiac structures.
• Appropriate reconstruction parameters: Enhance anatomical details and reduce artifacts.

Cardiac CT for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Cardiac CT, specifically coronary CT angiography (CCTA),plays a crucial role in the diagnosis of CAD.

CCTA provides:

• Non-invasive visualization of coronary arteries
• Detection and characterization of atherosclerotic plaques
• Assessment of plaque stability and risk of rupture

Cardiac CT for Valvular Heart Disease

Cardiac CT is useful in evaluating valvular heart disease, providing insights into:

• Valvular stenosis and regurgitation
• Calcification and leaflet motion
• Quantification of valvular regurgitation

Cardiac CT for Congenital Heart Disease

Cardiac CT is an essential tool in the diagnosis and management of congenital heart disease.

It allows for:

• Visualization of complex cardiac structures
• Detection of structural abnormalities
• Assessment of blood flow patterns

Cardiac CT for Myocardial Perfusion Imaging

Myocardial perfusion imaging evaluates blood flow to the heart muscle, helping to detect areas of ischemia or infarction.

It involves:

• Rest and stress scan protocols
• Comparison of blood flow patterns at different cardiac phases
• Identification of myocardial ischemia or infarction

Cardiac CT for Aortic Disease

Cardiac CT is utilized in the assessment of aortic disease, including:

• Aortic aneurysms (enlargement of the aorta)
• Aortic dissections (tears in the aortic wall)
• Evaluation of aortic valve function

Benefits of Cardiac CT

• Non-invasive and less invasive compared to traditional angiography
• Provides comprehensive anatomical and functional information
• Accurate and reliable for diagnosing various cardiac conditions
• Assists in risk stratification and management planning

Limitations of Cardiac CT

• Radiation exposure involved
• May not be suitable for patients with certain arrhythmias
• Requires contrast media, which may have potential risks

Cardiac CT is a valuable imaging tool that provides essential information for the diagnosis and management of a wide range of cardiac conditions. Its non-invasive nature, combined with its ability to provide detailed anatomical and functional data, makes it a cornerstone in modern cardiology.

Cardiac CT Made Easy: An Introduction to Cardiovascular Multidetector Computed Tomography, Second Edition

by Roberto Sandoval

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	72242 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	390 pages

FREE