Rapid-acquisition computed tomography demonstration of chronic calcified pericardial constriction

Dynamic imaging by a new ultrafast computed tomography scanner of a patient with chronic calcified pericardial constriction is presented. Images of the heart throughout the cardiac cycle demonstrate compression of the right ventricle by calcified pericardium. Hemodynamic data was derived from the scan study to support the diagnosis of pericardial constriction, which was confirmed on cardiac catheterization.