Cardiac Imaging

CT Calcium Score

A coronary artery calcium score is the measurement of calcium in the walls of the coronary arteries that supply the heart muscle. It is measured by taking a computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart. The scan shows the amount of hardening of the artery wall. This is recommended in adults > 45 years of age with intermediate background risk. The results of the scan make it possible to estimate the individual risk of a heart attack in the next 5-10 years. The more calcium there is, the higher the risk of a heart attack or stroke.​

Your doctor will use the coronary artery calcium score to better assess your individual risk for coronary artery disease and, if necessary, guide further investigation and/or measures to reduce your risk.​

CT Coronary Angiogram

CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA) is a non-invasive imaging technique used to examine the coronary arteries. It involves low radiation exposure. This advanced imaging method is designed to assess the coronary arteries, which supply blood to and from the heart.​

CTCA provides precise detection and grading of narrowing (stenoses) within the coronary arteries. This accurate evaluation of stenoses is essential for determining the severity of coronary artery disease and informing patient care and treatment plans. It also plays a key role in identifying the need for further interventions, such as angiography, stenting or bypass surgery.​

Cardiac MRI

Cardiac MRI is highly valued for its ability to provide detailed, high-resolution images without radiation to check for specific heart disease, inclusive of myocarditis, pericarditis, cardiomyopathy and congenital heart disease.. ​

Myocardial Perfusion Scan (MPS)

Myocardial Perfusion scans are a non-invasive and reproducible procedure to demonstrate abnormal blood flow through the coronary arteries, associated with heart attack. A tracer is administered intravenously at rest and after stress. This involves a small amount of radiation. Patients can be stressed using a treadmill or by administration of a pharmaceutical. This gives functional information of areas of the heart which receive reduced blood flow at stress, indicating a significant narrowing to one or more of the coronary arteries.​

Noosa Radiology uses a SPECT/CT Gamma Camera. This technology results in up to 25% increased accuracy in myocardial perfusion studies with reduced patient dose.

Echocardiography

This is an ultrasound of the heart and is performed by a qualified technician using a dedicated ultrasound probe and software. Utilising sound waves to generate images of the both the heart’s structure and function, this is a valuable non invasive tool to assess for a wide range of cardiac diseases.

Exercise Stress Test (EST)

An exercise stress test is used to measure the effect of exercise on the heart. This test involves you walking slowly and/or jogging on a treadmill so the activity of your heart can be measured using an ECG.

Holter Monitoring

A holter monitor is a small battery operated portable device that measures and records your hearts activity continuously for 24 hours. Your GP or specialist may refer you for a holter monitor to see if you have a slow, fast or irregular heartbeat. This monitor has no risks and isn’t painful to wear.