Cardiothoracic Imaging section houses faculty trained in the art of
lung and heart disease imaging. We perform and interpret X-rays,
computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to
evaluate patients. Our faculty is also trained in the use of fluoroscopy
to evaluate for diaphragm paralysis and mechanical heart valve
function. We work hand in hand with our primary medicine, pulmonology
and cardiology colleagues to ensure comprehensive patient care.
Our cardiothoracic radiologists are directly involved with the
imaging examination to guarantee the correct study is performed to
answer the clinical concern. The radiologists direct first hand all
cardiac CT and MRI examinations. This level of examination allows
detailed evaluation of the coronary arteries using CT, without invasive
catheters. Also, using MRI, we can look at the function of the heart
while also looking at the lungs and other vital structures around the
heart. Our cardiovascular system assessment is broad and includes
congenital heart disease, aortic and pulmonary artery disorders,
infiltrative cardiomyopathies, cardiac tumors, heart valve pathologies,
and myocardial viability assessment to name a few.
Evaluation of the lungs and airways is also comprehensive. Modern
X-rays and CT scans allow for full assessment of lung disease. Virtual
bronchoscopy is used to evaluate the airway and pinpoint an area of
concern. High resolution CT scans provide a fine detail look at subtle
lung processes. We ascribe to ALARA and perform all CT scans with lowest
radiation dose necessary. Our CT chest for nodule evaluation is
performed with a low dose protocol, which cuts the radiation dose
significantly to only 20-40% of standard chest CT scans.
Our hospital based facility in Galveston and outpatient imaging
centers in League City and Pearland offer leading edge imaging
technology.