Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is widely recognized for its magnetic resonance imaging studies of the heart, as well as a robust cardiac echocardiography (ultrasound) program. We now have a dedicated core laboratory—the Cardiac Imaging Research Core—that is leading novel imaging strategies to assess the heart under conditions of stress or exercise.
Additionally, we are working with colleagues from Georgia Tech to use imaging technology to reconstruct the heart in 3 dimensions. This will help us continue to better plan and carry out surgical procedures.
We are also investigating how biomechanical properties and fluid mechanics may help optimize complex surgical procedures. These techniques should increase early identification of children who may have myocardial impairment.