Ultrafast CT and the Cardiovascular System

Ultrafast computed tomography (CT) is a new imaging technique that relies on electron beam technology. Its rapid image acquisition speeds make it ideal for evaluating the cardiovascular system. The high-resolution, flow, and cine-modes are unique and provide complimentary information about cardiovascular anatomy, function, and flow dynamics. Ultrafast CT can provide quantitative measurements of cardiac output, ejection fraction, ventricular volumes, and ventricular mass as well as evaluation of segmental cardiac function. This technique can be used to assess coronary artery bypass graft patency as well as to screen for coronary artery calcium. Intracardiac thrombus or tumor, valvular disease, and disorders of the pericardium can be evaluated and characterized using ultrafast CT. The diagnosis of congenital lesions of the heart and great vessels is facilitated by this imaging modality, which can help determine complex anatomic abnormalities and quantitate shunt lesions. Acquired lesions of the great vessels, such as aortic dissection and aneurysm, can be diagnosed by ultrafast CT, which can also be used for serial examination and conservative management.