Diagnostics

Our cardiac imaging service is one of the largest in Europe, using advanced MRI and CT scans to diagnose and assess heart conditions. Our specialist team delivers high-quality care supported by leading cardiologists and the latest research.

For healthcare professionals:
Referrals for MRI (CMR) and CT (CCT) can be made via CRS or email. Patients with cardiac devices can be referred through PaceMRI for specialist guidance.

Location:
Second floor, KGV Building, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, West Smithfield, London.

Contact the service:
0203 465 5030

MRI

A cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is an imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves. It provides high-resolution images and can give very accurate measurements of your heart and how it functions. 

CT

A cardiac or coronary computed tomography (CT) scan is detailed X-ray imaging of the heart and blood vessels. This is achieved using multiple X-ray images, a contrast dye injection and computer processing to create cross sectional and 3D images.

Cardiac devices are used to treat people with abnormal heart rhythms. At Barts Health, we have the largest cardiac device service in the UK, implanting over 2,500 devices per year, and following-up with over 15,000 patients. 

The different types of devices we implant are:

• Biventricular pacemaker/cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRTs): to improve how well the heart beats 
• Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs): to prevent the heart from going too fast 
• Implantable loop recorders (ILRs): to monitor the heart rhythm 
• Pacemakers: Devices that prevent the heart from going too slowly

Once implanted, we routinely check and gather information from the device. This is either done face-to-face in a device clinic, or remotely via a home monitor. All patients who have a cardiac device implanted will be offered long-term follow up of their device at one of the hospital sites. 

Clinic information

Most follow-ups are done at St Bartholomew’s Hospital. There are also outreach pacemaker clinics at Newham Hospital and Whipps Cross Hospital at least once a week. 

At your device check, you will be seen by a specialised cardiac scientist who will review your device, check that it is working as well as it can and has good battery life. 

Please bring a list of your medications, your doctor’s letters and any questions you may have.

The first follow-up appointment is usually four to six weeks after implant, before moving to six or twelve-monthly checks, depending on your device. 

For some patients we offer remote monitoring. This allows us to monitor your device without you coming to the hospital. A remote monitor will be supplied to you which will transmit the information from your device directly to the clinic. The monitors will either be a bedside device or in some circumstances, can be run by an app on your phone.

A cardiac scientist will review the information received, much like a face-to-face appointment. If you have a remote monitor, it is important to always keep it plugged in and connected. If any urgent issues are detected by remote monitoring, we will try to contact you.

Contact the service

Device clinic
Clinic 5
Floor two
KGV Building
St Bartholomew's Hospital
West Smithfield
London, EC1A 7BE

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm

For appointments and technical device information (for patients and health care professionals): 0207 480 4899

Arrhythmia nurses: 0203 765 8844      

Patient information

• Box change
• Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy Defibrillator
• Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy Pacemaker
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
• Implantable Loop Recorder
• Pacemaker
• Subcutaneous ICD

Remote monitoring

• A guide to remote monitoring
• Setting up your Carelink Home monitor  
• Setting up your Latitude Home monitor
• Setting up your Merlin Home monitor

For ICD patients only