Why heart tests and imaging matter
Why heart tests and imaging matterAt NewYork-Presbyterian, we are committed to providing the most advanced, patient-centered cardiac care. Getting an accurate picture of your heart is at the core of a successful treatment plan. Our world-renowned specialists utilize state-of-the-art technology, often available here years before other hospitals, to examine the heart and its vessels non-invasively, without the need for surgery.
Whether you are here for a routine screening through our preventive cardiology program or require complex mapping for heart valve disease, heart failure, or aortic disease, we tailor every test to your unique needs.
Heart imaging is often the first step in diagnosing why you may be experiencing symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or a fluttering heart. At NewYork-Presbyterian, our diagnostic techniques allow us to:
- Identify Blockages: Pinpoint narrowed or blocked arteries that may lead to a heart attack.
- Assess Heart Function: Measure how well your heart pumps blood, essential for managing heart failure.
- Visualize Structure: Examine the heart’s valves and chambers for congenital heart disease.
- Guide Procedures: Provide a precise roadmap for our surgeons and electrophysiology (EP) specialists.
How we choose the right heart test for you
How we choose the right heart test for youYour cardiologist will recommend a specific test based on your medical history. We offer a full range of non-invasive and minimally invasive techniques to ensure we find the right fit for your symptoms.
Echocardiograms: Ultrasound pictures of your heart
An echocardiogram (or "echo") is a safe, non-invasive test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time moving images of your heart. It allows your doctor to see your heart beating, visualize the valves opening and closing, and detect any structural abnormalities.
- Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE): This is the standard test. A technician (sonographer) applies gel to your chest and moves a wand (transducer) to capture images. It is completely painless and requires no preparation.
- Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE): Sometimes, your doctor might need a clearer view of the heart's valves or the back of the heart. While you are sedated, a thin transducer is inserted through your throat into the esophagus. This offers a more detailed image because the esophagus is located directly behind the heart.
Stress tests: How your heart performs under work
A cardiac stress test shows how your heart handles physical activity. It usually takes between one and four hours, depending on the type of imaging involved.
- Exercise stress test: You will walk on a treadmill while we monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and electrical activity (EKG).
- Pharmacologic stress test: If you have physical limitations that prevent you from using a treadmill, we use a medication to safely simulate the effects of exercise.
- Nuclear imaging: A tiny amount of a safe, radioactive solution is introduced into your body. A special camera detects the solution to create images showing blood flow to different parts of the heart.
Cardiac CT: Detailed 3D images of your heart and arteries
Computed tomography (CT) uses advanced X-ray technology to create cross-sectional, 3D images of your heart. It is a highly safe, non-invasive alternative to traditional catheterization for many patients.
- Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA): Using a contrast dye, we can visualize your coronary arteries to check for blockages or plaque buildup.
- Calcium Scoring: This quick, 10-minute scan measures the amount of calcified plaque in your arteries, a powerful tool for preventive cardiology.
- Low-Dose Technology: We use specialized software to ensure you receive the lowest radiation dose possible while still providing the high-quality images our doctors need.
Cardiac MRI: Detailed, radiation-free heart imaging
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a large magnet and radio waves to produce detailed images of your heart’s anatomy. Typically, you lie on a table that slides into the scanner; however, “wide-bore” machines are often available for those who feel claustrophobic.
- Tissue detail: MRI is unique because it can show the difference between healthy heart muscle and scar tissue. It is often used to diagnose heart failure or complex issues in the aortic center.
- Pacemaker-Safe MRI: At NewYork-Presbyterian, we offer safe MRI for people with conventional pacemakers. A cardiologist is present during the scan to set your device to “MRI-safe mode” and restore it afterward.
Other important heart tests you may hear about
Other important heart testsWhile the major scans often get the most attention, your doctor may recommend other specialized tests to get a complete picture of your heart's health. These tools are often used to "listen" to your heart's electrical rhythm over time or to observe how your body reacts to different physical positions. At NewYork-Presbyterian, we use these diagnostics to catch subtle issues that a standard exam might miss, ensuring we understand not just how your heart looks, but exactly how it acts during your normal daily life.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): This fast, painless test uses small chest adhesives to record your heart's electrical signals and detect rhythm abnormalities or valve issues.
- Holter monitoring: You wear this portable device for 24 to 48 hours to record your heart rhythm during your normal daily activities, catching symptoms that may not happen in the doctor's office.
- Cardiac PET/CT: This advanced scan provides three times the detail of traditional nuclear tests while using 90% less radiation for your safety.
- Tilt table testing: To find the cause of fainting or lightheadedness, we monitor your heart rate and blood pressure as you are safely tilted from a lying to a standing position.
What to expect before, during, and after your heart test
After your heart testWe want you to feel comfortable and prepared for your visit. While every heart test is a little different, our team is with you every step of the way to ensure your safety and provide the clearest possible results. Here is a general guide to help you know what to expect.
Before your test
Preparation is key to a successful scan. Depending on the specific test your doctor has ordered, you may need to make a few small changes to your routine to ensure the images are as accurate as possible.
- Check your medications: In most cases, you should continue taking your usual medicines unless your care team specifically tells you otherwise.
- Dress comfortably: Wear loose, comfortable clothing; for an MRI, you must remove all metal objects, including jewelry, watches, and hairpins.
During your test
Your safety is our top priority. Throughout your procedure, our highly trained technologists and clinicians use advanced monitoring equipment to keep a close eye on your heart's activity.
- Stay connected: You will be under constant medical supervision, and technologists use an intercom to speak with you throughout the test.
- Understand contrast: If your test requires a contrast agent (dye), a nurse will place a small IV; you may feel a brief, warm flush, but this is a normal sensation that fades quickly.
- Rest easy: Most heart tests are non-invasive and painless, and our team will check in with you frequently to ensure you are comfortable.
After your test
Once your test is complete, we focus on getting you back to your day and getting your results to your physician as quickly as possible.
- Resume your day: Most patients return to their normal activities immediately, though you will need a designated driver if you received sedation for a TEE.
- Expert review: A sub-specialized NewYork-Presbyterian radiologist or cardiologist will carefully interpret your images to ensure every detail is captured.
- Access your results: Your report is typically shared with your doctor within 24–48 hours and will be available for you to view anytime in the Connect Patient Portal.
This content has been reviewed by the following medical editors.