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Comprehensive Cardiac Imaging Services at Florida Hospital

Sometimes doctors need to take a closer look at what's happening inside our bodies, without performing surgery to do so. New technology at Florida Hospital, such as 64-slice coronary CT angiography (CCTA) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), help physicians see detailed heart images that allow them to detect heart trouble without surgery. This technology is saving hundreds of lives.

What is a 64-slice CCTA?

This test combines rapid x-ray scanning with multiple computed tomography (CT) to produce the most detailed images of your heart. A computer assembles the x ray 'slices' into an image of the organ that reveals its complete structure. You might need to receive an injection of contrast dye to highlight the blood vessels of the heart and obtain a better image. The exam is done quickly and painlessly in a 64-slice CT scanner.

Who should have a 64-slice CCTA?

64-slice CCTA is a new technology that provides an alternative to heart catheterization for those who meet the criteria. A 64-slice CCTA is recommended for anyone with a family history of heart disease, older than 45 years of age, or with any predisposition for heart disease. Since usually people with a family history wait until they experience symptoms, chest pain, or even a heart attack before they start preventative treatment, a 64-slice CCTA offers an accurate, non-invasive screening to diagnose coronary artery blockages that may end up causing a heart attack. A 64-slice CCTA uses X-ray beams to create detailed images of the heart and coronary vessels.

Do you think you might be a good candidate for a 64-slice CCTA? Answer YES or NO to the questions below.

• Do you currently smoke or have smoked?
• Do you have hypertension higher than 140/90mm Hg?
• Do you have an elevated LDL , higher than130mg/dl?
• Do you have a low HDL, lower than 40mg/dl?
• Do you have diabetes mellitus?
• Do you have family history of heart disease?
• Do you have documented coronary artery disease?
• Are you 50 or older?
• Have you had an angina episode in the last 2-3 weeks?
• Have you had chest pain without any coronary artery risk factors?
• Are you an asymptomatic (no symptoms showing) high risk patients?

If you answer YES to any of these questions you might be a good candidate to have a screening CCTA. Remember that you must have a written prescription from your physician before you can have this exam performed.

What are the contraindications of having a 64-slice CCTA?

If you have any of the following, a 64-slice CCTA might not be a good alternative for you.

• Diabetes affecting the kidneys (if the diabetes has caused renal/kidney insufficiency-loss of kidney function with creatinine >1.5)
• Allergic reaction to contrast material in the past. Please notify us of what the reaction was, and we will determine if pre-medication can be done, or if the test can't be done at all due to the severity of the reaction. Please let us determine this, by telling us exactly what occurred when you had IV contrast material.
• Elevated creatinine/BUN (kidney disease). If you are over 50, and do not know your BUN and Creatinine, or you have not had this checked within the last 90 days; we will perform a lab test to determine this.
• If taking any erectile dysfunction medications, these must be stopped 24 hours prior to the exam. (Viagra, or others on the market).
• If taking Glucophage, or any of the diabetes medications that contain metformin, this medication must be stopped for 48 hours after the exam. Please check with your physician before coming for your appointment to let him/her know you need to stop taking this medication for 48 hours after the exam
  

What is a Cardiac MRI?

CMR uses magnetic resonance and radiofrequency waves to create detailed images of the heart in motion. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe, noninvasive test that creates detailed images of your organs and tissues. Therefore, a Cardiac MRI uses radio waves and magnets to create images and video of your heart and surrounding organs. According to many specialized physicians, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is nowadays the gold standard to scan the heart muscle. Since it is extremely accurate and doesn't expose you to radiation, CMR is recommended even for pediatric patients suffering from congenital heart disease. Unlike CT scans or conventional x rays, MRI imaging doesn't use radiation.

How do I schedule a Cardiac Imaging procedure?

Consult with your physician about 64-slice CCTA and/or Cardiac MRI. If your doctor determines either of these procedures can help you, schedule an appointment at Florida Hospital Orlando by calling, 407/303-5884, or at Celebration Health by calling 407/303-4111.