Cardiac Imaging Research
The Cardiac Imaging Research Program at the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation encompasses the use of several different tools to image the heart. Currently, we have research projects utilizing nuclear scans, ultrasound (Echocardiography), electron beam cat scans (EBCT), and magnetic resonance imaging scans (MRI). We use some or all of these tools as part of studies or as end points for studies. As end points of a study the scans are used to assess the effectiveness of the study treatment. These imaging tools look at the heart in different ways. Echocardiography uses ultrasound to give us images of the heart structures and their function. Echocardiography is an especially good tool to look at structure of the valves and the overall pumping function of the heart. EBCT is currently used to image the amount of calcium within the coronary arteries of the heart which may indicate coronary artery disease. The MRI scan is a novel way to look at the structure and function of the heart. MRI is the only tool currently available that allows us to look at all three layers of the heart muscle and the blood flow to these layers.
Current Research Studies:
Research Studies that are closed to new patients/follow-up only:
Click here to view a list of archived Cardiac Imaging Research
Kevin M. Harris, MD, FACC, FASE
Timothy D. Henry, MD, FACC
Thomas Knickelbine, MD, FACC
John R. Lesser, MD, FACC
Terri Arndt, RN, MA, CCRC
For more information about the cardiac imaging research program at the Minneapolis Heart Institute and Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation please contact Betsy Wilson at 612-863-7065.
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