What Is Cardiothoracic Imaging?

Cardiothoracic imaging offers a comprehensive non-invasive assessment of the pulmonary and cardiovascular systems. These imaging tests help to detect and diagnose diseases or disorders of the heart and lungs. A team of specialists will conduct the imaging tests, evaluate the results, and your doctor will review the results of the tests with you. There are several different types of cardiothoracic imaging tests. Consult with your doctor to determine which test is best for you.

Types of Cardiothoracic Imaging

There are a few different types of cardiothoracic imaging tests. The type of imaging test you may need will be dependent on your symptoms and the suspected condition being evaluated. Consult with your doctor to determine which test is needed. There are three main types of cardiothoracic imaging tests: chest X-ray, fluoroscopy, and an echocardiography.

Chest X-Ray

If your doctor suspects heart or lung disease, a chest X-ray is typically the first imaging test that is recommended. A chest X-ray uses radiation to create an image of your heart and lungs. This imaging test can reveal the condition of your lungs, heart or lung-related problems, the size and outline of your heart, blood vessels, calcium deposits, fractures or postoperative changes. Additionally, chest X-rays can also determine if a pacemaker, defibrillator or catheter is positioned correctly.

Fluoroscopy

A fluoroscopy is an imaging test that provides images of moving body structures. It is described as an X-ray “movie.” The imaging test passes an X-ray beam through the body part being examined and creates an image of the body part in motion. Often, a fluoroscopy uses contrast dye so that the imaging can be shown in greater detail. Doctors use this test to detect heart or lung diseases or disorders.

Echocardiography

An echocardiography, more commonly known as an echocardiogram or cardiac ultrasound, is an imaging test that uses soundwaves to create pictures of the heart. The imaging test shows blood flow through the heart and heart valves. The test generates images of the heart, which allow doctors to assess for disease or disorders of the heart.

How Is Cardiothoracic Imaging Done?

Cardiothoracic imaging can be done using different imaging tests. The most common types of cardiothoracic imaging tests that doctors recommend are a chest X-ray, fluoroscopy or an echocardiography. It is important to consult with your doctor to determine which test is best for you. Each of these tests are comprehensive and non-invasive, and do not require a hospital stay.

Once it is determined which test or tests are being ordered, your doctor will discuss how to prepare for your imaging test and what you should expect during and after your test. Typically, once you have completed the testing, a specialist will read the results and send the findings to your doctor. Your doctor will then discuss the results with you.

Understanding Your Results

Once you have completed your testing, your results will be read, analyzed, and interpreted by a specialist or team of specialists. The findings will be sent to your primary care provider, cardiologist, or pulmonologist, and you will be able to discuss the results with them.

Considerations before Cardiothoracic Imaging

It is important to consult with your doctor or specialist to determine if cardiothoracic imaging is right for you. They will be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Each of the cardiothoracic imaging tests are comprehensive non-invasive tests and do not require a hospital stay. There are benefits and risks to these types of tests.

Benefits

Important benefits for cardiothoracic imaging tests are that they are comprehensive and non-invasive tests that do not require a hospital stay. Additionally, each of these tests offer detailed images of the heart and lungs and can help doctors detect diseases or disorders. Imaging tests allow doctors to diagnose more accurately and efficiently and expedite the treatment process.

Risks

There are minimal risks to cardiothoracic imaging tests. There is an extremely low risk of radiation from the X-ray and fluoroscopy tests. Technicians will make sure to provide protective padding or aprons to protect from radiation. Please make sure to tell your doctor or technician if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, as this could pose a risk to the pregnancy. Additionally, some people may have an adverse reaction to contrast dye, which is sometimes used during a fluoroscopy. Generally, most people tolerate these specific imaging tests, with very low risk.

Learn More about Cardiothoracic Imaging

If your doctor suspects a heart or lung condition, more than likely, a cardiothoracic imaging test will be recommended. Please consult with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have. Your doctor will be able to explain how to prepare for your test and what to expect during and after your test.

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