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.

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Survival rates similar when treating secondary MR with TEER or surgery

Surgical mitral valve repair, however, was also associated with multiple benefits.

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Myocardial perfusion imaging diverts patients from unnecessary, invasive angiography

MPI has the potential to act as a "gatekeeper" for invasive coronary angiography following coronary CT angiography, experts reported recently.

Monitoring high-risk patients for AFib fails to reduce stroke risk

"These findings might imply that not all AFib is worth screening for, and not all screen-detected AFib merits anticoagulation," researchers wrote. 

Amulet vs. Watchman: LAA occluder devices compared in new head-to-head trial

The Amulet's implantation success rate and LAA closure rate were both higher than the first-generation Watchman device, researchers reported.

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Imaging advocates, bipartisan lawmakers unite to oppose ‘misguided and massive’ Medicare pay cuts

Congressmen highlighted a planned wage increase for clinical labor that will spell 20% reductions elsewhere, due to budget neutrality. 

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Quality experts urge CMS to fold imaging Appropriate Use Criteria Program into other value initiatives

After years of delays, the initiative's usefulness has "diminished significantly," imaging leaders from several noted institutions wrote in Health Affairs. 

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Nonexpert clinicians trained to screen patients for rheumatic heart disease

The screening, carried out with handheld ultrasound devices, can lead to quicker diagnoses and better patient care. 

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LAAO outcomes significantly worse among women

Researchers tracked data from more than 49,000 patients who underwent LAAO from January 2016 to June 2019.