New dimension in heart scans

A TOP cardiologist has unveiled a new technique that allows doctors to "slice" open 3D images of the heart, which he claims could mean fewer operations to diagnose defects.

The method, known as multi-plane review 3D echocardio-graphy, enables users to identify heart defects much more accurately than on traditional 2D or standard 3D scans.

Dr Joseph Vettukattil pioneered its development at Southampton General Hospital to identify heart abnormalities that are present from birth.

He hopes it will eventually replace magnetic resonance imaging for most cardiac scans.