The ESC Textbook of Cardiovascular Imaging

Imaging is at the core of diagnostic procedures in cardiology. The idea of creating The European Society of Cardiology Textbook of Cardiovascular Imaging has, therefore, been in the air for quite a long time. We recognized the rapid development of cardiovascular imaging and the growth of the clinical use of cardiac imaging. Although there have been excellent books and reviews on the matter, the society experienced the need of a book representing the accumulated expertise of European cardiovascular imagers. Our goal was to produce a clinically orientated book, which explained the utility of different imaging modalities in the diagnosis of all relevant major cardiovascular disorders. We invited the best specialists in the eld to contribute with their expertise as authors. The book is divided in sections that deal with speci c themes involving theory and practice of cardiac imaging and its clinical use in all major cardiovascular diseases from coronary heart disease to cardiomyopathies. We hope this book will become an ideal companion to all cardiologists, trainees, and card- vascular imagers. There has been a lot of effort and hard work to develop this project. We are con dent that this book will help to spread the expertise and knowledge available on cardiov- cular imaging. We thank all the authors who contributed long hours to develop the content of this book. Without their expertise and commitment, this book could not have been possible.

The appropriate application of imaging procedures and accurate image interpretation are essential skills for the cardiologist. The ESC Council on Cardiovascular Imaging identified the need for a practical and yet comprehensive book covering all major imaging modalities. To achieve this goal, the distinguished Editors have assembled a team of imaging specialists who have provided a series of expertly written chapters. Each contains a series of carefully chosen images showing the full potential of modern cardiovascular imaging techniques.

The ESC Textbook of Cardiovascular Imaging has been designed as a clinically orientated reference, the main aim of which has been to define the role and clinical utility of different cardiovascular imaging modalities in the diagnostic workup of patients following a disease-based approach. Each section presents a structured review of the theory and practice of cardiac imaging, while detailing the application of different modalities in diagnosing cardiovascular disease. The associated website provides readers with access to the electronic version, enriching the user experience through inclusion of a large number of dynamic videos that demonstrate key aspects of cardiovascular imaging. Both videos and still images can be downloaded for use in the readers’ own presentations, while the website also includes dynamic links to other important resources. This book and its associated website are therefore the ideal companion for all cardiologists, trainees and cardiovascular imagers wishing to advance their knowledge in this area.