Cardiac Imaging

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 heart’s structures, and staff will explain this if needed. The scan itself only lasts a few seconds, and it’s important to stay still while the images are taken. Most appointments are completed within 10–15 minutes, and your doctor can review the images shortly afterward.

Echocardiography

An echocardiogram, or “echo,” 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 — this is normal and simply represents blood flow. The test does not use radiation and usually takes around 20–30 minutes. Once the scan is complete, your doctor can review the images to assess your heart’s 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, and you will be given earplugs or headphones to make you more comfortable. It’s 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 heart’s 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.