Cardiac Services

Cardiac CT Scans

64-Slice CT Scanner

Rhode Island and The Miriam hospitals are the first and only hospitals in Rhode Island to use a 64-slice CT scanner. This technology is useful in diagnosing a variety of cardiac conditions, most notably coronary artery disease. This new generation of CT scanner has sub-millimeter resolution, allowing physicians to the see the heart in amazing detail. The scanner produces images that are then processed by a computer to create three-dimensional images of the heart and surrounding structures. We are able to see static images of the heart in enough detail to detect the early stages of plaque buildup in coronary arteries. This was never possible before in a noninvasive way.

We can identify people with coronary artery disease, and assess the severity of disease when present. We can also rule out coronary disease in patients who have unusual symptoms. This allows physicians to diagnose and prescribe treatment for heart disease earlier than ever before and to offer you the best opportunity to prevent further damage to your heart.

CAD CT Screening

Rhode Island and The Miriam hospitals are the only hospitals in southeastern New England to offer CAD CT screening for coronary artery disease. CAD CT is a technology that uses an x-ray or ultrasound to produce computer images of the heart and serves as an important preventive tool in the battle against heart disease.

A CT scan technologist, with the help of a radiologist, reads the computer generated scan, to see precisely if and where an artery or blood vessel of the heart is clogged. These scans are important indicators of the likelihood of future heart problems.

Rhode Island Hospital offers coronary artery calcium scoring. This technique uses
x-rays to evaluate the presence and burden of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. Higher calcium scores, like high cholesterol, indicate a higher risk for heart attack and other adverse events.

If the scans show moderate buildup we are then able to recommend comprehensive and aggressive treatments, in coordination with your physician, to prevent any more damage through both medication and lifestyle changes.

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