Visualizing Heart
Visualizing heart only through x-rays are hard. To fix this problem, heart imaging devices are used to look at the heart functions. Innovations in medical research have resulted in a number of different ways to visualize cardiac function to diagnose disease and for medical research. Diagnostic tests in cardiology are methods of identifying heart conditions associated with healthy vs. unhealthy heart function. Below is a list of the various visualization techniques such as photoacoustics used for assessing heart function:
Cardiac Function Imaging In Vivo: This heart visualization technique involves non-invasive, in vivo, real-time imaging of the heart. It is very beneficial for imaging processes that occur over a period of time, such as wall hypertrophy, and such diseases as COPD. High-resolution imaging for the observation of veins, arteries, valves, etc. It also allows for the monitoring of ejection fractions, flow rates, and cardiac output in conscious or anesthetized. It is a dedicated animal platform that allows for the monitoring of heart rate, body temperature, ECG, and respiration rates. It is cutting edge technology that provides a 3-D visualization of the heart.
Echocardiogram: This device uses ultrasonic waves for continuous visualization of the heart chamber and blood flow. It is common device used to diagnose heart problems because it allows for a non-invasive visualization of the heart and the blood flow using a technique known as Doppler. Transoesophageal echocardiogram is used in heart and lung imaging. Intravascular ultrasound is used to visualize the lumen and the interior wall of blood vessels.
Magnetic resonance imaging: This technology uses both powerful superconducting magnets and radio frequency signals and detectors for imaging. In cardiology, it is used for visualization as it allows for more comprehensive exams including morphology function, quantitative assessment of size, and tissue characteristics. An MRI uses a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide detailed images of the structure and function of the heart. MRI has the capability to identify areas of the heart muscle that are not receiving adequate blood supply.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET): This technology is an imaging methodology that enables visual image analysis of multiple different metabolic chemical processes and is thus one of the most flexible imaging technologies. Cardiology uses are growing very slowly but most uses are for research, not clinical purposes. In Cardiology, Computed tomography angiography is allowing researchers to make cardiac studies. It is also allowing radiologists to diagnose cardiac artery disease without anesthesia and in a non-invasive way.
CT coronary angiography: Identifies calcium deposits and blockages in the blood vessels. A CT coronary angiography is used to determine whether symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath is a sign of a coronary problem, and whether the symptoms can be treated with non-invasive techniques , medicine, or with surgery.
Heart imaging is able to detect heart disease prior to symptoms being present, and detecting the smallest amount of calcium buildup in the arteries. Today, innovative technological developments in medical technologies have allowed researchers to gain a better insight into the heart’s functions and process. The result has been more effective methods of diagnosing many heart conditions which will help researchers come up with better treatments and even cures.
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