Inpatient Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

Our cardiologists have immediate access to the state-of-the-art technologies of AdventHealth and AdventHealth for Children, the latter of which is home to one of the few pediatric cardiac intensive care units (CICUs) that exists nationwide. Cardiac MRI and CT scans are performed in these facilities to obtain clear images of the heart that would be difficult or impossible to obtain in the past, thereby aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of various heart problems. Cardiac MRI can be especially helpful in patients with complex heart valve diseases, as it allows for visualization of scar tissue left over from a heart attack or previous surgery. It can also show whether bypass surgery may be needed as a result of that condition, and provide a good snapshot of the way the heart is functioning overall. In a cardiac CT scan, the X-ray machine revolves around the body as the patient lies motionless inside of it. Detailed pictures are taken of each portion of the heart and eventually used to compose a 3-dimensional picture of the entire organ.