Joining forces in cardiac imaging: highlights from the first European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging/European Society of Cardiovascular Radiology joint summit

On 12 April 2025, the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) and the European Society of Cardiovascular Radiology (ESCR) convened at the Amsterdam University Medical Center in the Netherlands for a landmark summit entitled ‘Hot Topics in Cardiac Imaging’. This event marked a significant step in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between cardiologists and radiologists to enhance the future of cardiovascular imaging and care. The idea for the meeting was developed by Robin Nijveldt (R.N.) (past EACVI Vice-President, Chair of CMR section) and Rozemarijn Vliegenthart (R.V.) (past ESCR President) after the successful CMR2024 Conference organized by the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance and EACVI, together with ESCR. As members of their respective societies, Nijveldt and Vliegenthart realized the need for networking so that the societies could get to know each other better, build respect and trust, as well as establish areas of collaboration. The summit was prepared by a collaborative team of four imaging cardiologists (Anna Baritussio, Robert Manka, Robin Nijveldt, and Gianluca Pontone) and four radiologists (Ricardo Budde, Maja Hrabak Paar, Rodrigo Salgado, and Rozemarijn Vliegenthart) actively involved in the EACVI and ESCR, respectively. The summit facilitated networking and interaction with ample time for panel discussions that included audience questions and break times where discussions could continue among the attendees (see Figure 1). Over 100 participants engaged with leading cardiologists and radiologists to discuss cutting-edge technologies and challenges in cardiovascular imaging, emphasizing practical applications and innovations. The short lectures alternated with lively panel discussions, resulting in a dynamic day full of shared expertise and experiences. A specific session featured pitches by representatives of contributing industry partners which could lead to Cardiovascular Round Tables, further enhancing collaboration across societies. (Top row L to R): summit faculty; view of the Amsterdam UMC conference room filling-up with attendees; one of the summit panel discussions. (Bottom row L to R): group photo of conference attendees and faculty; whiteboard graphics for a presentation; summit committee meeting the day after to prepare the highlight paper The meeting opened with a welcome address from R.N. and R.V. as well as from local hosts Jose Henriques and Lourens Robbers, setting the tone for the day’s discussions. The first session focused on imaging in suspected non-acute coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition that remains a significant diagnostic challenge. Francesca Pugliese provided an overview of current guidelines for imaging in suspected CAD, setting the stage for a broader discussion on how these guidelines shape clinical practice. Michelle Williams explored the role of computed tomography (CT) as the first test for all patients, delving into the advantages and limitations of using coronary CT angiography as a first-line diagnostic tool. Ibrahim Danad discussed when ischaemia testing should be considered, emphasizing the need for a strategic approach to imaging that balances diagnostic accuracy with clinical efficiency. Ricardo Budde introduced the topic of photon counting CT, a new technology that promises to enhance image quality and diagnostic capability. He explained how this technology could shift the role of CT in diagnosing CAD. Finally, a panel discussion facilitated an interactive exchange of ideas, with experts debating the merits of various imaging modalities for suspected CAD. The second session addressed the growing concern over the sustainability of imaging practices in cardiovascular care. Sebastian Kozerke discussed ways to shorten CMR scan protocols for ischaemia and viability assessment, suggesting that streamlining protocols without compromising diagnostic quality could significantly increase time and cost-efficiency. Rozemarijn Vliegenthart presented on CT for CAD and the potential for protocol shortening in CT scans, particularly by implementing a calcium score of zero as a discriminatory tool in pre-test low-probability patients. This could reduce radiation exposure and increase the efficiency of CT workflows. Pim van der Harst provided insight into the environmental impact of non-invasive imaging, raising awareness of how cardiovascular imaging can contribute to overall healthcare sustainability. Strategies for reducing the carbon footprint of imaging practices were discussed. A panel discussion expanded on these themes, with speakers discussing practical approaches to making imaging more environmentally and economically sustainable. The third session focused on advanced imaging modalities in assessing valvular heart disease. Victoria Delgado discussed the gaps in current guidelines for multimodality imaging in valvular heart disease, stressing the need for updated clinical recommendations that effectively integrate CT and CMR. Jean Nicolas Dacher presented on the expanding toolbox of CMR for valvular heart disease, showcasing how CMR has become an essential tool for functional and anatomical evaluation of heart valves. Marc Dweck discussed CT for valvular heart disease, exploring the changing paradigm in imaging techniques that now allow for more precise and comprehensive assessments. Rodrigo Salgado highlighted transcatheter therapeutic options for valvular heart disease, illustrating how imaging technologies are key in guiding interventional procedures. The panel discussion emphasized the increasingly important role that advanced imaging plays in guiding both diagnosis and treatment in valvular heart disease. The final session delved into the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cardiovascular imaging, an area that promises to revolutionize diagnostic and therapeutic practices. Marly van Assen explored AI applications in cardiac CT, highlighting how AI can enhance image analysis, improve diagnostic accuracy, and streamline workflows in cardiovascular imaging. Théo Pezel focused on AI in CMR, discussing its potential to assist in image interpretation, reduce reading time, and provide more personalized care. Merel Huisman addressed the hurdles to AI implementation, discussing challenges such as data integration, standardization, and the need for clinician training. The panel discussion underscored AI’s transformative potential in cardiovascular imaging while acknowledging the challenges associated with its widespread implementation. The summit underscored the necessity of collaboration between cardiologists and radiologists. By combining clinical expertise with advanced imaging technologies, professionals can better understand cardiovascular diseases, improving clinical care and patient outcomes. As result of the summit, a highlight paper summarizing the content of the sessions will be published simultaneously in an ESC and ESR journal, and several ideas for EACVI/ESCR consensus documents are being explored. We eagerly anticipate the upcoming EACVI/ESCR Summit, expected to take place in Zurich, Switzerland in 2026. The EACVI/ESCR Summit set the stage for knowledge exchange and professional networking, reinforcing the collective commitment to advancing cardiovascular imaging through innovation and collaboration. By bringing together experts from both cardiology and radiology, the summit highlighted the importance of uniting forces in tackling the challenges and opportunities in cardiovascular imaging. Anna Baritussio (EACVI Councillor CMR 2022–2026), Ricardo Budde (ESCR Secretary), Robert Manka (EACVI Vice-President-Elect CMR 2024–2026), Robin Nijveldt (EACVI Vice-President CMR 2022–2024), Maja Hrabak Paar (ESCR Chair Educational Committee), Gianluca Pontone (EACVI Vice-President Nuclear Cardiology and CCT 2022–2024), Rodrigo Salgado (ESCR President 2024–2026), Rozemarijn Vliegenthart (ESCR President 2022–2024). R.V.: unrestricted research grat Siemens Healthineers; speaker's fee from Siemens Healthineers, Bayer Healthcare, Wiley. R.N.: unrestricted research grant from Philips Volcano and Biotronik; speaker's fee from BMS, Pfizer, Sanofi Genzyme.