Cardiac Imaging

While cardiac ultrasound is the widely used imaging modality for heart assessments, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear imaging are also used and are often complimentary, each offering specific details about the heart other modalities cannot. For this reason the clinical question being asked often determines the imaging test that will be used.

CRT 2026: Key takeaways for interventional cardiologists
CRT studies shed new light on many topics, including long-term TAVR outcomes, radiation protection and advanced interventional techniques.
FDA clears intravascular device billed as ‘world’s smallest camera’ as physicians share new data
The new device, which provides users with real-time images in full color, is now approved by the FDA to be used in the peripheral vasculature. Meanwhile, first-in-human data published in Stroke explored its potential in the cerebral vasculature.
Shortage of cardiac amyloidosis radiotracers should ease in late March
However, the regular supply of these imaging radiotracers may not be back online for another few months.
Cardiology now has more than 200 FDA-cleared AI algorithms
Cardiology is No. 2 behind radiology when it comes to FDA-cleared AI algorithms. Neurology, meanwhile, is a distant No. 3.
FDA clears AI-enabled cardiac MR planning technology from Philips
The new SmartHeart technology automates 14 cardiac views in less than 30 seconds. It was designed to increase productivity and bring more consistency to cardiology and radiology departments.

Eric Rubin, MD, vice president of clinical operations at Virtua Health, and the American College of Radiology's CPT advisor to the American Medical Association (AMA), explains the process for creating a Category I CPT code for payments and the difference with Category III temporary tracking codes.

Radiology dominates FDA-cleared AI, but reimbursement lags far behind

As of January 2026, there will only be two CPT category 1 payment codes for newer AI, despite there being hundreds of FDA-cleared medical imaging algorithms.

old woman or doctor shaking hands with patient

Women are more likely to have severe aortic stenosis missed on echocardiography results

Three out of four TTEs are being ordered by clinicians who are not cardiologists. Could this be having a negative impact on patient care?

The Medtronic Liberant thrombectomy system.

New Medtronic thrombectomy system used commercially for first time

The new device uses an advanced algorithm to regulate aspiration and conserve blood. Ajit Rao, MD, a vascular surgeon with The Mount Sinai Hospital, performed the historic procedure.

Milestone Pharmaceuticals has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for etripamil, a new nasal spray for adult patients with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT).

FDA approves new nasal spray for patients with abnormal heart rhythms

Milestone Pharmaceuticals will be selling etripamil under the brand name Cardamyst. It is expected to hit the U.S. market in early 2026.

Philips to acquire AI-enabled intravascular imaging specialists SpectraWAVE

Massachusetts-based SpectraWAVE has gained considerable momentum in recent years, planting its flag in some of cardiology’s biggest trends. The company was co-founded by cardiologists and has already secured multiple FDA clearances.

heart data AI algorithm cardiologist doctor

FDA clears next-generation cardiac mapping software

San Diego-based Vektor Medical first secured FDA clearance for the AI-powered technology back in 2021. This updated announcement covers the latest version, which includes atrial flutter mapping and several other new features.

AI-powered FFR-CT software linked to considerable cost savings, accurate predictions

According to Heartflow, its AI offering saves health systems nearly $1,400 per patient thanks to reductions in unnecessary cardiovascular testing.

Reimbursement expected to drive implementation of CCTA, coronary plaque analysis

For years, imaging experts have predicted that CCTA may become the primary imaging modality for coronary artery disease and eliminate the need for invasive diagnostic catheterizations. That prediction is now coming true.

Cardiac Imaging

CRT 2026: Key takeaways for interventional cardiologists

FDA clears intravascular device billed as ‘world’s smallest camera’ as physicians share new data

Shortage of cardiac amyloidosis radiotracers should ease in late March

Cardiology now has more than 200 FDA-cleared AI algorithms

FDA clears AI-enabled cardiac MR planning technology from Philips