[Computed tomography in cardiology: the diagnostic aspects]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the heart and aorta.
• Accurate diagnosis and assessment are crucial for effective patient management.
• Advanced imaging modalities are essential for evaluating complex cardiac and aortic pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of computerized tomography (CT) in assessing various heart and aortic diseases.
• To determine the capability of CT in measuring both functional and anatomical parameters of the cardiovascular system.

Main Methods:

• Computerized tomography (CT) was performed on 306 patients.
• Patients presented with a spectrum of acquired and congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, cardiac tumors, pericarditis, and aortic aneurysms.
• CT imaging was utilized to assess specific functional and anatomical parameters.

Main Results:

• CT enabled the assessment of functional parameters including end-systolic and end-diastolic volumes, ejection fraction, left-ventricular wall motility, and systolic myocardial thickening.
• Anatomical assessment included the pericardium, heart cavities, valve induration and calcification, myocardial thickness, and intra-cavity formations.
• CT also evaluated the aorta, pulmonary artery, vena cava, pulmonary veins, and aortocoronary shunt patency.

Conclusions:

• Computerized tomography (CT) is a versatile tool for evaluating a broad range of heart and aortic diseases.
• CT effectively quantifies both functional and anatomical aspects of cardiovascular structures.
• This imaging modality aids in the comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health and disease.