Some advanced cardiac imaging studies require specialized equipment or hospital-based settings. At Heart & Vascular Specialists DFW, we coordinate out-of-office imaging services to ensure our patients receive accurate, high-quality diagnostic testing in trusted partner facilities.
Our cardiologists order, interpret, and integrate these imaging results into your personalized care plan, ensuring continuity of care from testing to treatment.
Coronary CT angiography is a non-invasive imaging test that uses CT technology and contrast dye to visualize the coronary arteries. It helps detect plaque buildup, narrowing, or blockages that may cause chest pain or increase the risk of heart attack.
A coronary calcium score measures calcified plaque in the coronary arteries using a low-dose CT scan. This test helps assess your risk for coronary artery disease, particularly in patients without symptoms but with risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or family history of heart disease.
Cardiac MRI provides highly detailed images of the heart’s structure and function without radiation. It is used to evaluate heart muscle disease, scarring, inflammation, congenital heart conditions, and complex cardiomyopathies.
Transesophageal echocardiography uses an ultrasound probe placed in the esophagus to obtain highly detailed images of the heart. TEE is often used to evaluate heart valves, detect blood clots, assess infections, or guide certain cardiac procedures.
These advanced imaging tests help diagnose and evaluate:
Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Blocked or narrowed coronary arteries
Heart valve disorders
Cardiomyopathy and heart muscle disease
Blood clots inside the heart
Congenital heart abnormalities
Inflammation or scarring of heart tissue
Stroke risk related to cardiac sources
Our team will coordinate scheduling and provide clear instructions before your imaging appointment. Depending on the test:
You may receive contrast dye or medication
Sedation may be used for TEE
Imaging time varies from 30 minutes to 2 hours
After the study, your cardiologist will review the results and discuss next steps with you.
Preparation varies by test, but may include:
Fasting for several hours before the exam
Temporary medication adjustments
Avoiding caffeine or nicotine
Arranging transportation for sedated procedures
Our staff will provide specific instructions tailored to your scheduled test.
