Cardiac masses, part 2: key imaging features for diagnosis and surgical planning

The objectives of this article are to discuss key radiologic features that differentiate primary and secondary cardiac masses. Clinical scenarios are included to highlight stepwise radiologic workup of tumors of the pericardium, epicardium, myocardium, valves, and chambers. The involvement of key cardiac anatomic structures will also be emphasized to determine resectability and guide surgical planning.

Multimodality imaging plays a pivotal role in diagnosis and surgical planning of cardiac masses. Clinical features, such as patient age, location, and imaging characteristics of the mass will determine the likely differential diagnosis. In addition to radiologic evaluation of the mass itself, involvement of valvular apparatus, extent of myocardial involvement, or presence of associated coronary artery involvement is necessary to determine resectability and surgical technique.