Cardiac imaging
Cardiac Imaging
Cardiac imaging (pronounced: /kɑːrˈdiæk ˈɪmɪdʒɪŋ/) is a subspecialty of diagnostic radiology. A cardiac imaging specialist uses imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI and ultrasound to diagnose and monitor diseases related to the heart.
Etymology
The term "cardiac" is derived from the Greek word "kardia," which means heart. "Imaging" comes from the Latin word "imago," meaning picture or representation. Thus, cardiac imaging refers to the pictorial representation of the heart's structure and function.
Types of Cardiac Imaging
There are several types of cardiac imaging techniques, each with its own specific uses and advantages. These include:
- Echocardiography: This technique uses sound waves to create images of the heart. It is often used to assess the heart's function and structures.
- Cardiac CT: This is a type of computed tomography scan that provides detailed images of the heart and its blood vessels. It is often used to diagnose coronary artery disease.
- Cardiac MRI: This technique uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart. It is often used to assess the heart's structure and function, as well as to diagnose heart diseases.
- Nuclear Cardiology: This involves the use of radioactive substances to assess the heart's function and blood flow. It is often used to diagnose coronary artery disease and assess the damage caused by a heart attack.
Related Terms
- Cardiology: The branch of medicine that deals with diseases and abnormalities of the heart.
- Radiology: The branch of medicine that uses imaging to diagnose and treat diseases within the body.
- Coronary Artery Disease: A disease caused by the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart.
- Heart Attack: A sudden and sometimes fatal occurrence of coronary thrombosis, typically resulting in the death of part of a heart muscle.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cardiac imaging
- Wikipedia's article - Cardiac imaging
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