LAUSR

The year is still young, but 2018 has already been remarkable for cardiac imaging in the UK. For the first time, three cardiac imaging societies (the British Nuclear Cardiology Society, the British Society of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance, and the British Society of Cardiovascular Imaging/British Society of Cardiovascular CT) came together on May 2nd to hold the first national joint conference on nuclear cardiology, CMR, and cardiac CT imaging. The conference took place in the astonishing city of Edinburgh, which has been at the center of many political, cultural, and scientific contributions over centuries, therefore constituting an ideal backdrop for this landmark gathering. The meeting brought together experts from the three imaging modalities, who were joined by over 350 delegates. This event was more than the integration of the societies’ annual meetings; it was a vivid example of what can be achieved with close collaboration and a shared goal of communicating scientific and clinical knowledge through an integrated, multi-modality imaging approach. As a cardiac imager, it was highly gratifying to be part of a much wider multi-talented community. Facilitated by a thoughtfully designed program, imaging-centered discussions moved fluidly from technique-specific indications to multi-modality applications for the investigation of heart disease. Imaging researchers and practitioners as well as trainees and allied professionals challenged each other openly in lively discussions about the current state of noninvasive cardiac imaging and its future. The conference has been described by some as a huge success, reflecting the dedication and hard work of all the people involved in its organization and delivery. Indeed, its success was evidenced by its popularity and positive feedback. But there was another aspect of this remarkable achievement; the meeting succeeded in providing the right environment in which to raise awareness of a growing number of cardiac imaging enthusiasts with an interest in mastering the multimodality rather than the single imaging approach to the study of the cardiovascular system in health and disease. According to the ADKAR model for change (Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, Reinforcement), awareness is the first of a series of steps to implement effective change; as in the ADKAR model, this national multi-modality imaging conference may represent the first link of a chain of events that may lead to a renewed, collaboration-centered practice of cardiac imaging in the UK. As a proud and passionate nuclear cardiology practitioner, I welcome new initiatives and innovations in the field. Over recent years, we have witnessed a rapidly growing implementation of radiation dose reduction protocols; an increasingly number of studies looking at the feasibility and validity of CZTgamma-camera systems for quantitative myocardial perfusion; and, more recently, the Eliana Reyes, Journal of Nuclear Cardiology Editorial Board and ASNC Publications Committee.