Cardiac Imaging
What is cardiac imaging?
Cardiac imaging refers to specialised examinations that help clinicians assess the heart's structure, surrounding vessels and, for selected studies, its function. The technique chosen depends on the patient's symptoms and the clinical question.
Cardiac CT can provide detailed anatomical information, while cardiac MRI can provide information about heart muscle and certain functional characteristics. These techniques are not interchangeable, and the appropriate study is determined by the referring clinical team.
Preparation and examination steps vary considerably by technique. The team will confirm the specific imaging method requested and explain any additional requirements.
What to expect
- Confirm which cardiac imaging examination has been requested, as CT and MRI have different preparation requirements.
- Tell staff about implants, previous contrast reactions, kidney problems and possible pregnancy.
- Follow any instructions about caffeine, eating, drinking or regular medicines; these may be important for certain cardiac CT protocols.
- Bring relevant previous heart-imaging reports and a list of medicines if requested.
- You may be asked to lie still and follow brief breathing instructions while the images are acquired.
- Heart-monitoring electrodes may be attached to help coordinate image capture with the heartbeat.
- Depending on the examination, contrast material or medication may be used under clinical supervision.
- The team will explain what to expect from the particular scanner and will monitor you as appropriate.
- Follow the discharge advice for the imaging technique, contrast material or medication used.
- Some patients can resume normal activities immediately, while others may require brief observation.
- Contact the team if you develop unexpected symptoms after medication or contrast administration.
- The images are reviewed and reported to the referring healthcare professional as part of the wider cardiac assessment.
Safety and results
- Safety considerations depend on whether the examination uses CT, MRI or another technique.
- Cardiac CT involves ionising radiation, whereas MRI uses a strong magnetic field and requires implant screening.
- Contrast agents and medicines used for some cardiac examinations may have specific precautions or side effects.
- Tell staff about pregnancy, kidney problems, implanted devices, allergies and any previous contrast reactions before the scan.
Please contact our team if you have questions about your examination or preparation instructions.
A radiologist reviews the cardiac images and prepares a report addressing the question raised in the referral. Depending on the technique, the report may describe heart anatomy, selected vessels, heart muscle or measured functional features. Your referring clinician or cardiology team will interpret these findings alongside your examination and other cardiac tests and explain any further care required.
For questions about your findings or treatment, please speak to your referring healthcare professional.
For questions about your findings or treatment, please speak to your referring healthcare professional.