The section of Cardiovascular Imaging interprets cross sectional imaging studies of the heart and vascular system using CT and MRI with a volume of more than 1,500 studies each year. Both, CT and MRI are non-invasive imaging modalities, meaning that no catheterization is required. The MUSC operates the most up-to-date, cutting edge imaging equipment to ensure optimal diagnostic quality in patient care. In addition, MUSC has long-standing experience in performing and interpreting cardiovascular imaging studies with unparalleled expertise in the Lowcountry.

In most instances, imaging studies are performed with contrast enhancement (iodine-based for CT, gadolinium-based for MRI), which is injected through a small intravenous access in an arm vein. CT scans are used primarily to evaluate vascular structures, such as the coronary arteries or the aorta and its branch vessels. MRI is also used for general vascular studies, however, its primary strength is the evaluation of the heart muscle for function, perfusion and viability. Typically, a CT scan, which uses x-ray technology, takes 10-20 seconds to perform. The patient will spend about 20 minutes in the CT scanner suite. Complete cardiovascular MRI studies typically require about 40 minutes. Common reasons for performing CT studies are known or suspected narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries, renal arteries, or mesenteric arteries, and diseases of the aorta (dissection, aneurysm). Typical reasons for performing MR studies include known or suspected congenital cardiovascular anomalies, evaluation of myocardial ischemia by assessing cardiac function, perfusion and the amount of viable heart tissue prior to bypass surgery. MR can also be used to diagnose diseases of the aorta and its branch vessels as well as the vasculature of the upper and lower extremity for known or suspected peripheral vascular disease.