Imaging
CT scan (computerized tomography)
Computerized tomography (CT) is an advanced tool used to diagnose certain diseases and abnormalities not seen on conventional X-rays. It produces detailed cross-sectional pictures of internal structures in the body. During the procedure, you will lie on a padded table. The table moves into the center of the scanner. As the X-ray tube moves around you, detectors take information and transfer it to the computer. Images are stored on film.
Stress nuclear CT
Park Nicollet Heart and Vascular Center has state-of-the-art nuclear imaging technology. Cardiologists use a newly combined nuclear/CT imaging system to show how well blood flows to the heart muscle when it needs it most – during physical activity. It also helps determine the heart's pumping function.
By producing an image of the heart, radioactive tracers, such as thallium and cardiolyte, can increase the accuracy of a traditional stress test. It usually is done in conjunction with an exercise stress test on a treadmill, but also can be performed using medications that simulate the effects of exercise on the heart. Incredibly clear images are taken before and after the stress test.
Preparing for your nuclear CT stress test (PDF)
Cardiac CT scan (heart scan)
Cardiac computer tomography is a screening method that records a series of detailed images of the heart’s blood vessels to detect calcium buildup in the coronary arteries and signs of coronary artery disease before damage to the heart has occurred.
3D computerized imaging
Three-dimensional (3D) computerized imaging is an advanced form of CT scanning. It produces high-resolution, 3D images that can be manipulated using computer software.
Coronary CT angiogram
Coronary CT angiogram (CTA) is a noninvasive heart imaging technique using high-speed computed tomography to visualize your heart blood vessels. The scan can detect early signs of coronary heart disease that may be invisible in other heart tests. During the procedure, dye is injected into your arm through an IV line. You then lie on a special table that moves slowly into a large circular opening, where the scanning takes place.
Coronary CT fact sheet (PDF)Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) MRA
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an advanced tool used to diagnose diseases and abnormalities not seen on conventional X-rays. MRI produces high-quality images without using radiation. MRI uses a sophisticated computer, a strong magnetic field and radio waves. During the procedure, you lie on a padded table that moves into the center of the scanner where the images are taken. Images are stored on film. Cardiac MRI can be used to diagnose the structure and function of the heart and major vessels. Patients can even listen to XM Satellite radio while these tests are performed.
Echo Doppler
An echocardiogram is a picture of the heart using ultrasound (sound waves). A Doppler exam is a special type of ultrasound that assesses blood flow through the heart. During the exam, a gel is applied to the area to be examined and a transducer (a small, microphone-like device) is passed over the skin. An image is then produced on a screen on the ultrasound machine.
Transesophageal echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a picture of the heart using sound waves. A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is an echocardiogram done from inside the esophagus (the tube leading from your mouth to your stomach). Because your esophagus lies just behind your heart, TEE provides much clearer images of your heart than the standard echocardiogram. TEE is useful in finding and evaluating:
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blood clots or masses inside the heart
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the severity of valve defects
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prosthetic (artificial) heart valves
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holes between heart chambers
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infection of the heart valves
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a dissection (tear) in the lining of the aorta (the body’s main artery)
Preparing for your transesophageal echocardiogram (PDF)
Electrocardiogram
In this test, electrodes are placed on the skin, and a machine measures the electrical activity of the heart. An electrocardiogram can measure the rate and regularity of the heartbeat, check for damage to the heart and monitor the effects of medications or devices used to regulate the heart.
Duplex ultrasound
An ultrasound is an examination using high-frequency sound waves to create visual images. It is used to evaluate blood flow and blockages in your vessels. During an ultrasound, you will lie on a table and ultrasound gel will be placed on the region your doctor will view. A transducer (a device to obtain images) will be moved around the area. Duplex ultrasound combines two types of ultrasound – conventional, which shows the structure of your blood vessels, and Doppler, which shows the movement of your blood through the vessels.
Venogram
A venogram is an X-ray of veins. During the procedure, contrast material is injected to help your veins show up on X-rays. The test is used to check for blood clots or other blockages that can cause problems with the blood flow back to your heart.