Excellent cardiothoracic imaging requires much more than an advanced scanner. It depends on the right examination, carefully tailored acquisition settings, experienced radiographers and specialist interpretation by consultant radiologists.
At SHB Medical Imaging, we combine these elements to provide high-quality cardiac imaging and thoracic imaging that clinicians and patients can rely on. Our approach is designed to achieve exceptional diagnostic detail while keeping radiation exposure and contrast medium use as low as clinically appropriate.
We use the latest-generation Canon CT scanner at Frimley Park Hospital and advanced GE CT scanners at Heatherwood and Wexham Park Hospital.
These platforms provide market-leading cardiac imaging performance, designed to capture detailed coronary artery images quickly and accurately.
Fast image acquisition helps reduce the effects of cardiac movement and supports clear imaging of moving coronary arteries.
Detailed visualisation of the coronary arteries can help support confident assessment of coronary artery narrowing and plaque.
Our consultant radiologists develop and refine protocols to match the scanner, examination and individual clinical indication.
We provide advanced cardiac diagnostics for patients and referrers in Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire, reducing the need to travel further afield for specialist heart imaging.
Rapid imaging techniques can reduce the time spent in the scanner, helping make cardiac and chest imaging more straightforward and comfortable.
Our protocols aim to achieve the lowest radiation dose possible while still obtaining the diagnostic information required.
Where clinically appropriate, advanced scanner technology and tailored protocols can reduce the volume of contrast medium needed for CT imaging.
Your scan is interpreted by consultant radiologists with specialist interests in cardiac diagnostics and thoracic imaging, rather than relying on generic reporting pathways.
High-quality heart imaging and chest imaging can help your referring clinician make informed decisions about further tests, treatment or follow-up.
1.
We receive a
referral from your
consultant, GP or other appropriate healthcare professional. In some circumstances, we may also be able to advise patients regarding self-referral options.
2.
We review the request to ensure the examination is appropriate, then arrange an appointment at the most suitable available location.
3.
Before your scan, our team will explain what to expect and any preparation required. The examination is then performed using the relevant specialist imaging protocol.
4.
Your images are reviewed by a consultant radiologist with relevant expertise in cardiac imaging, chest imaging or the specific clinical area being investigated.
5.
A detailed report is issued to the referring clinician, supporting timely next steps in diagnosis, management or onward referral where needed.
Cardiothoracic imaging uses specialist CT and MRI examinations to assess the heart, coronary arteries, lungs, airways and chest structures. It can help investigate conditions including coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, heart valve disease, congenital heart disease, lung nodules, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary embolism and thoracic cancers.
You may be referred when your GP, cardiologist, respiratory physician or consultant needs detailed imaging of your heart, coronary arteries or chest. Referrals may be made to investigate symptoms, assess a known condition, plan a cardiac procedure or monitor treatment and follow-up.
Heart or chest imaging may be considered for symptoms such as chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations, unexplained fatigue, persistent cough, coughing up blood or suspected lung disease. Imaging is selected based on your symptoms, medical history and the clinical question from your referring clinician.
General radiology covers a broad range of imaging examinations across the body. Cardiothoracic imaging is a specialist area focused on the heart, coronary arteries, lungs and chest. It requires tailored scan protocols and interpretation by radiologists with expertise in cardiac CT, cardiac MRI and thoracic imaging.
Cardiac CT and cardiac MRI can assess coronary artery narrowing, coronary calcium, heart muscle disease, myocarditis, cardiac function, congenital heart conditions and structural heart disease. Thoracic CT can help assess lung nodules, pulmonary embolism, interstitial lung disease, mediastinal abnormalities and thoracic oncology conditions.
Specialist imaging provides detailed anatomical and functional information to help clinicians make informed decisions. It can support diagnosis, risk assessment, treatment selection, multidisciplinary discussions and procedure planning, including TAVI, mitral valve and left atrial appendage interventions.
Most cardiac CT, cardiac MRI and thoracic imaging examinations require a referral from an appropriate healthcare professional, such as a GP or consultant. SHB Medical Imaging can also advise patients who are exploring self-referral options and the most suitable next steps.
Appointment availability depends on the type of examination, clinical urgency, preparation requirements and location. Once a referral has been reviewed for appropriateness, SHB Medical Imaging will aim to arrange the most suitable available appointment at a relevant local site.
Your examination is reviewed by a consultant radiologist with relevant expertise in cardiac imaging, thoracic imaging or the specific clinical area being assessed. A detailed report is then sent to your referring clinician to support your ongoing care.
After your scan, the images are interpreted using the relevant specialist protocol and a comprehensive report is issued to your referrer. Your GP, consultant or specialist team will discuss the findings with you and advise whether further tests, treatment, monitoring or onward referral is needed.
If you are a clinician seeking specialist cardiothoracic imaging in Surrey, Hampshire or Berkshire, we can support your patients with advanced Cardiac CT, Structural Cardiac CT, Cardiac MRI and Thoracic Imaging.
Patients who would like to explore local private medical imaging options in Surrey are also welcome to contact us.
TBC