High speed synchronous volume computed tomography of the heart.

A new generation, fully electronic high-speed whole-body computed tomography system is being developed to provide accurate dynamic visualization and measurement of the vital functions of the heart based on rapid changes in its shape, dimensions, and perfusion. This Dynamic Spatial Reconstruction System (DSR) will provide stop-action (1/100 sec.), rapidly sequential (60/sec.) synchronous volume (240 simultaneous, 1mm-thick cross sections) reconstructions and display of the full anatomic extent of the internal and external structures of the heart throughout successive cardiac cycles, and will permit visualization of the three-dimensional vascular anatomy and circulation throughout the myocardium.