Cardiac Imaging

What is Cardiac Imaging?

Cardiac imaging, a specialised field within radiology, encompasses a range of services designed to capture detailed images of the heart and its valves. These images are obtained using state-of-the-art technologies, including ultrasounds (echocardiograms), CT (computed tomography) scans, Nuclear Imaging and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans. ​

Cardiac Imaging at Coolum Radiology

CT Calcium Score

A coronary artery calcium score is the measurement of calcium in the walls of the coronary arteries that supply the heart muscle. It is measured by taking a computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart. The scan shows the amount of hardening of the artery wall. This is recommended in adults > 45 years of age with intermediate background risk. The results of the scan make it possible to estimate the individual risk of a heart attack in the next 5-10 years. The more calcium there is, the higher the risk of a heart attack or stroke.​

Your doctor will use the coronary artery calcium score to better assess your individual risk for coronary artery disease and, if necessary, guide further investigation and/or measures to reduce your risk.​

CT Coronary Angiogram

CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA) is a non-invasive imaging technique used to examine the coronary arteries. It involves low radiation exposure. This advanced imaging method is designed to assess the coronary arteries, which supply blood to and from the heart.​

CTCA provides precise detection and grading of narrowing (stenoses) within the coronary arteries. This accurate evaluation of stenoses is essential for determining the severity of coronary artery disease and informing patient care and treatment plans. It also plays a key role in identifying the need for further interventions, such as angiography, stenting or bypass surgery.​

Cardiac MRI, available at Noosa Radiology

Cardiac MRI is highly valued for its ability to provide detailed, high-resolution images without radiation to check for heart problems, such as heart disease, heart muscle damage, or heart valve disease. ​Please call Noosa Radiology for more information or to book an appointment.​

Myocardial Perfusion Scan (MPS), available at Noosa & Gympie Radiology

Myocardial Perfusion scans are a non-invasive and reproducible procedure to demonstrate abnormal blood flow through the coronary arteries, associated with heart attack. A tracer is administered intravenously at rest and after stress. This involves a small amount of radiation. Patients can be stressed using a treadmill or by administration of a pharmaceutical. This gives functional information of areas of the heart which receive reduced blood flow at stress, indicating a significant narrowing to one or more of the coronary arteries.​

SPECT/CT Gamma Camera technology results in up to 25% increased accuracy in myocardial perfusion studies with reduced patient dose. We are the only centre on the Sunshine Coast which can fuse imaging from CT Coronary Angiography with Myocardial Perfusion studies to provide an anatomical vascular map of coronary narrowing.​

Please call Noosa Radiology or Gympie Radiology for more information or to book an appointment.​

Echocardiography

This is an ultrasound of the heart and is performed by a qualified technician using a dedicated ultrasound probe and software. Utilising sound waves to generate images of both the heart’s structure and function, this is a valuable non-invasive tool to assess for a wide range of cardiac diseases.

Exercise Stress Test (EST), available at Noosa & Gympie Radiology

An exercise stress test is used to measure the effect of exercise on the heart. This test involves you walking slowly and/or jogging on a treadmill so the activity of your heart can be measured. One of our doctors battery-operated. Please call Noosa Radiology or Gympie Radiology for more information or to book an appointment.​

Holter Monitoring, available at Noosa & Gympie Radiology

A holter monitor is a small battery operated portable device that measures and records your hearts activity continuously for 24 hours. Your GP or specialist may refer you for a holter monitor to see if you have a slow, fast or irregular heartbeat. This monitor has no risks and isn’t painful to wear. Please call Noosa Radiology or Gympie Radiology for more information or to book an appointment.​

Preparing for your examination

Please be aware that all cardiac examinations require an appointment. Please call us to arrange an appointment.​

What to bring:​

  • A referral from your GP or specialist​
  • Medicare card​
  • Pension/concession card​

You may be required to have a consultation prior to the examination. Cardiac Imaging preparations vary for each examination which can include taking a pre-medication, avoiding caffeinated products, fasting and being well hydrated. Our staff will make you aware of all preparation when booking your appointment.​

Please tell us if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.​

Reasons for Cardiac Imaging

Cardiac imaging helps your doctor detect or monitor cardiac disease by:​

  • evaluating the anatomy and function of the heart chambers, heart valves, size of and blood flow through major vessels, and the surrounding structures such as the pericardium (the sac that surrounds the heart).​
  • diagnosing a variety of cardiovascular (heart and/or blood vessel) disorders such as tumors, infections, and inflammatory conditions.​
  • evaluating the effects of coronary artery disease.​
  • planning a patient’s treatment for cardiovascular disorders.​
  • monitoring the progression of certain disorders over time.​
  • evaluating the effects of surgical changes, especially in patients with congenital heart disease.​
  • evaluating the anatomy and function of the heart and blood vessels in children and adults with congenital heart disease (heart disease present at birth).​

What to expect

You may be asked to complete some forms on arrival, depending on the type of cardiac image you are having and you will be asked to change into a gown prior to the examination.​

Your procedure will be explained at the time of your booking however detailed information can be found by clicking on the document that refers to your examination at the bottom of this page.​

When can you get your results?

The images obtained are digitally recorded. At Coolum Radiology our highly trained and qualified radiologists interpret the images and provide a report for your doctor and/or referring health care provider usually within 24 hours, although depending on the complexity of the scan this may take a little longer.​​

You will need to make a follow up appointment to discuss the results with your referring practitioner. Your doctor can access your report and images electronically via a secure portal and you will be able to access your images via our patient portal.​

Upcoming closure:

Please note that this clinic will be closed on Friday, 13 June for the Nambour Show public holiday.

Normal hours will resume on Monday, 16 June.

Thank you for your understanding and we wish you a safe and relaxing holiday!