Cardiac CT and MR Applications in Electrophysiology

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The aims of this article are to discuss the role of cardiac computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) applications in cardiac electrophysiology and to review recent literature including emerging technologies.

Recent Findings

Applications of CT and MR are relevant to electrophysiology procedures in patients with both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. CT and MR can identify anatomic landmarks and barriers to successful pulmonary vein ablation and left atrial appendage ligation. Further, the excellent tissue characterization provided by cardiac MR allows rapid identification of ventricular ablation targets without the use of ionizing radiation. The use of MR in patients with implanted cardiac devices has been an area of ongoing research as has the emerging technology of real-time interventional cardiac MR to guide electrophysiology procedures.

Summary

Familiarity with these CT/MR techniques and applications will allow radiologists to further assist our colleagues in electrophysiology and to participate in this growing field.