Which imaging method is often used to assess the conduction system before pacing interventions?

The conduction system is crucial for the heart’s rhythm, and before pacing interventions, it is vital to assess its functioning and anatomical configuration. Electrophysiological studies (EPS) and electrocardiography (ECG) provide valuable insights into the electrical properties of the heart, helping to identify conduction abnormalities such as blockages or irregularities in the cardiac conduction pathways.

EPS is an invasive procedure that allows for detailed mapping of electrical signals and pathways within the heart, which is instrumental for diagnosing arrhythmias. It can help identify the specific sites where the conduction system is compromised, which directly informs the pacing strategy.

On the other hand, an electrocardiogram is a non-invasive method that records the heart's electrical activity over time. It can reveal issues like abnormal conduction patterns, arrhythmias, and is a routine assessment performed to evaluate the heart's rhythm and identify any need for pacing.

The other imaging methods listed, while useful in certain contexts, are not dedicated to the evaluation of the conduction system in the same direct manner as EPS and ECG. For instance, a CT scan offers detailed images of the heart’s structures but does not provide functional electrical activity data needed for pacing decisions. MRI is excellent for soft tissue imaging but is less commonly used