Time Magazine Article: How to Stop a Heart Attack

(Online versions of this article are available to subscribers of Time magazine only. If you would like a written copy of the magazine, please call our office at: 800-891-5957).

A recent article in Time magazine focused on advances in cardiac imaging over the last 18 months. As stated in the article, non-invasive imaging of the heart has undergone remarkable advances due to technological advances in Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the heart.

Cardiologists currently use a test called coronary angiography to look at the arteries of the heart. In this procedure, a catheter is inserted into a vein the patients' leg and brought up into the right side of the heart. The physician injects dye and will observe an image created using x-ray technology. Coronary angiography provides an excellent view of the coronary arteries, but carries about a 1% risk of serious complications.

The recent developments in non-invasive imaging give cardiologists another option for observing the arteries that supply the heart. The new generation of Computed Tomography (CT) scans use 64 "slices" or imaging planes to gather detailed information of the heart. CT technology was created in the late 1970's, but previously did not have the spatial (how detailed the image is) or temporal (how quickly the image can be taken) resolution to view the always-moving heart. Powerful new software also takes into account the phase of the heartbeat when the picture is taken so that multiple images can be matched from the correct phase to give a detailed picture.

The Time Magazine article also points out that CT is especially good for those who have intermediate risk factors, but are not good candidates for the invasive angiography. Your physician may feel that your risk factors for heart disease are not strong enough to warrant the risks associated with coronary angiography, however, you may be a candidate for CT imaging of the heart because there are less risks. If the CT imaging study shows calcifications in the coronary arteries, your physician may elect to start more intense management with medications.

There are certain risks associated with CT imaging of the heart. These include risks associated with the contrast agent used in the scan, and risks associated with radiation of the heart. Furthermore, CT imaging of the heart is one of many tests that physicians use to assess the function of the heart. These reasons make it imperative that you discuss the advantages and disadvantages of CT imaging with your cardiologist.

Newport Coast Imaging has the first outpatient 64-slice CT scanner in southern California. (For more information, please see our facility page). We are happy to work with your cardiologist or other physician to provide access to your CT imaging study after it has been completed. Our well-trained and friendly staff is committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible.

For more information please contact Advanced Imaging Newport Coast at (800) 891-5957.