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.