The role of modern cardiovascular imaging in (suspected) coronary artery disease in competitive athletes

This overview addresses different non-invasive imaging methods in diagnosing CAD before clearing the athlete for participation in sports activity. Keep in mind the risks and benefits of exercising for the competitive athlete and to use the SCORE-information as a first evaluation tool. It is essential to gather relevant information and to complement anatomical evaluations with functional evaluations. Exercise testing also has an added value in athletes as it will inform both the physician and the athlete on the aerobic fitness of the individual, a key factor in risk assessment. (c) 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Automated summary

This article provides an overview of different non-invasive imaging methods for diagnosing CAD and discusses the risks and benefits of evaluating athletes before sports participation. Gathering relevant information and complementing anatomical evaluations with functional evaluations can help assess the risk of CAD in athletes.