Cardiac (Heart) Imaging

Our technicians, nurses and physicians have special training in pediatric heart imaging and work closely for the best possible results. For your convenience, we offer certain tests at multiple locations within the communities we serve. We offer:

Echocardiography 

Echocardiograms — ultrasounds of the heart — create 3D pictures using harmless soundwaves that come from a wand (called a transducer). We offer several types of tests:

• Transthoracic echocardiography: This is the most common form of heart imaging using ultrasound. An ultrasound wand is moved over the chest to visualize the heart from multiple views. We sometimes perform this test immediately after exercise to see how the heart responds to physical activity. This is called a stress echo echocardiogram.
  
• Transesophageal echocardiography: We gently guide a smaller ultrasound wand down the esophagus (throat) to get images of the heart from inside the body. Children are sedated for this test. This is commonly performed during a procedure or surgery.
• Fetal echocardiography: During a fetal echocardiogram, we obtain images of an unborn baby’s heart through an ultrasound wand passed across their mother’s stomach. We provide this imaging through our fetal heart program. 

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Cardiac MRI offers highly detailed images of the heart’s structure and pumping ability. The imaging lets providers see and measure blood flow through the blood vessels. It also shows the lungs, trachea (windpipe) and esophagus. 

Like echocardiograms, MRIs do not use radiation and often don’t require contrast dye. We strive to keep cardiac MRI studies short and make it easier for kids. Your child can listen to music or watch a movie. We also try not to use sedation and find that many kids starting around 8 years old won’t need it.

With our state-of-the-art cardiac MRI, we:

• Take clear pictures without your child having to hold their breath
  
• Perform them without contrast dye whenever possible
• Have an imaging cardiologist present at every test, as well as an electrophysiologist if needed
• Can also perform a stress/perfusion test with medicines that safely increase heart rate for a short time, instead of exercise

Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (CT) 

CT scans need just a few seconds to take pictures of multiple layers of the heart and blood vessels. They are often used to look closely at changes in the coronary arteries that supply the heart with blood or the airways. Sometimes a contrast dye is injected through the vein to see the vessels better.

Our CT scans:

• Are overseen by a specialized team of cardiac radiologists
  
• Can often be done without sedation 
• Are performed without contrast dye whenever possible, to reduce the risk of a reaction
• Are used to do dynamic airway assessments — watching your child’s heart and breathing in real time

Your child’s safety is our top priority. CT scans involve radiation. That’s why we limit scan times and use lower radiation doses, and only use them when needed.

3D Printing & Modelling Technologies

We use detailed models of the heart and blood vessels for cardiothoracic surgery planning and to provide education to families.

Preparing for Your Child’s Imaging Test

To help you feel more prepared, we answer your questions and provide as much information as your family wants. We have videos to show what will happen. We encourage you to watch with your child (if you feel they are old enough), so you both know what to expect. 

Most of our tests can be done while your child is fully awake. They will need to hold completely still to get clear images of their heart. 

If your child is not able to stay still, our cardiac anesthesiology team can help. They’ll provide just enough sedation to get your child through their test safely and comfortably — no more, no less.

Before your child’s imaging appointment, a care coordinator will contact you with specific instructions. 

Echocardiography

Transthoracic Echocardiograms Without Sedation

• These scans are completed at our hospital cardiac centers or outpatient imaging locations.
• After checking in, your child will change into a hospital gown. A team member called a sonographer then conducts the test.
• Echocardiograms can take 20 to 60 minutes.
• If your child has an appointment with their cardiologist immediately following the study, results will be discussed during the appointment. Otherwise, results are sent directly to the doctor who ordered the test and are available through the Nemours app. 

Echocardiograms With Sedation

Echocardiograms with sedation are performed in our hospital heart center under a doctor’s supervision. Afterward, your child will stay for monitoring until they’re fully awake.