Overview

Cardiac imaging is a central aspect of Cardiology. The Heart Institute is a national centre for cardiac imaging in diagnostic tests, research studies and training programs. We conduct the largest volumes of cardiology imaging tests in Canada. Cardiac imaging provides information about the inner workings of the heart in unprecedented detail. This capability serves not only to help diagnose or rule out specific diseases of the heart, but also provides an important research tool for scientists to create the most advanced, efficient tools that will require less radiation and take less time.

Non-invasive imaging techniques used at the Heart Institute include the more common echocardiography and ultrasound. The advanced technologies of single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) reveal physical and functional abnormalities inside the heart.

Nuclear imaging technologies (SPECT and PET) use radiological tracers to light a pathway through the body which is tracked by special cameras. These tracers make it possible to visualize specific cardiovascular disease and treatment processes. While X-ray-based imaging (chest X-rays and CT) reveal the internal structures of the body. Both two- and three-dimensional images can be generated to show physicians how the heart is functioning and how blood flows in and through the heart muscle.

Our imaging facilities, combined with laboratory research, offer our scientists a unique set of tools for cardiac study and the ability to more quickly translate new findings into therapies for improved patient care. We also have the rare capability to develop and produce novel, short-lived tracers on site, enhancing our ability to advance imaging techniques.