Open Heart. 2026 Mar 16;13(1):e004015. doi: 10.1136/openhrt-2026-004015.
ABSTRACT
Cinematic rendering (CR) is a three-dimensional visualisation technique that applies physically based lighting to standard volumetric CT and MRI datasets, producing images with enhanced depth and spatial realism. Although often regarded as primarily aesthetic, we believe CR offers practical clinical value in selected cardiac and vascular imaging scenarios. It can provide continuity of volumetric visualisation of structures leading to improved understanding of complex anatomy, enhance multidisciplinary communication, for example, in multidisciplinary conferences, and support procedural planning. This viewpoint discusses where CR adds meaningful insight into cardiovascular care and argues that its potential remains underused. Rather than replacing conventional imaging techniques, CR should be viewed as a complementary tool that enhances interpretation when spatial relationships are critical. As cardiovascular imaging becomes increasingly central to complex interventions and team-based decision-making, CR may play an important supporting role.
PMID:41839492 | DOI:10.1136/openhrt-2026-004015