At Pinnacle Medical Imaging we offer a comprehensive range of cardiac imaging services. Here is a description of our range of services:
Cardiac CT
- A cardiac CT scan is a quick and painless test that takes detailed pictures of your heart and nearby blood vessels.
- You will lie on a comfortable table that moves through a large, open ring-shaped scanner.
- Small stickers (electrodes) will be placed on your chest to monitor your heartbeat during the scan.
- Sometimes a contrast dye is used to help highlight the heartβs structures, and staff will explain this if needed.
- The scan itself only lasts a few seconds.
- It is important to stay still while the images are taken.
- Most appointments are completed within 10β15 minutes, and your doctor can review the images shortly afterward.
Echocardiography
- An echocardiogram, or βecho,β is a safe and painless test that uses sound waves to create moving images of your heart.
- You will lie on a bed while a small amount of gel is placed on your chest.
- A handheld device called a transducer is gently moved over the area to capture pictures of your heart as it beats.
- You may hear soft swooshing sounds β this is normal and simply represents blood flow.
- The test does not use radiation.
- It usually takes around 20β30 minutes.
- Once complete, your doctor can review the images to assess your heartβs structure and function.
Cardiac MRI
- A cardiac MRI is a safe and painless test that uses magnets and radio waves to take detailed pictures of your heart.
- You will lie on a comfortable table that slides into a large, open-ended tube.
- The scanner makes tapping or humming sounds during the test, which is completely normal.
- You will be given earplugs or headphones to make you more comfortable.
- Itβs important to lie still while the images are taken, and our staff will guide you through brief breathing instructions.
- Some scans may require a contrast dye, which will be explained if needed.
- Most cardiac MRI appointments take 30 to 45 minutes and your doctor can review the images once the scan is complete.
ECG
- An ECG is a quick and completely painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart.
- You will lie down while several small stickers (electrodes) are placed on your chest, arms, and legs.
- These are connected to a monitor that tracks your heartbeat.
- You simply relax and breathe normally while the machine captures the information.
- The test only takes a few minutes, and the results are available straight away for your doctor to review.
Holter Monitor
- A Holter monitor is a small, portable device that records your heartβs rhythm over 24 to 48 hours while you go about your normal daily activities.
- Several small stickers (electrodes) are placed on your chest and connected to a lightweight monitor that you can wear on a belt or shoulder strap.
- The device continuously tracks your heartbeat, allowing your doctor to see how your heart functions throughout the day and night.
- The test is painless, and you can continue most regular activities while wearing it.
- Once the monitoring period is complete, you return the device so the recordings can be reviewed by your doctor.