CT Coronary Angiography

Introduction to Coronary Angiography:

Coronary angiography is a diagnostic procedure used to assess the blood flow through the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Traditionally performed using catheter-based techniques (conventional angiography), CT Coronary Angiography offers a non-invasive alternative that utilizes computed tomography (CT) imaging technology to obtain high-resolution images of the coronary arteries.

Why is CT Coronary Angiography Done?

Detection of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): CT Coronary Angiography is performed to diagnose or rule out coronary artery disease by visualizing any blockages, narrowing, or plaques in the coronary arteries.
Evaluation of Chest Pain: It is used to assess patients with chest pain or other symptoms suggestive of coronary artery disease, helping to determine the presence and extent of any blockages.
Preoperative Assessment: CTCA may be performed as part of preoperative evaluations for cardiac surgery or interventions to assess the patient's coronary anatomy.
Screening for CAD: In some cases, CT Coronary Angiography may be used as a screening tool for individuals at high risk of coronary artery disease but without symptoms, such as those with a family history of CAD or risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, or smoking.

Benefits of CT Coronary Angiography:

Non-invasive: CTCA is a non-invasive procedure that does not require the insertion of catheters into the arteries, minimizing the risk of complications associated with invasive angiography.
Highly Accurate: It provides highly detailed and accurate images of the coronary arteries, allowing for the detection of even small plaques and lesions.
Rapid Imaging: CT Coronary Angiography produces images quickly, enabling timely diagnosis and treatment planning. Comprehensive Evaluation: CTCA allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the entire coronary artery tree, including the presence, location, and severity of any blockages or narrowing.
Patient Comfort: Unlike conventional angiography, CT Coronary Angiography is generally well-tolerated and does not require sedation, offering a more comfortable experience for patients.

Tests in CT Coronary Angiography:

Contrast-enhanced CT Imaging: Intravenous contrast dye is administered to enhance the visualization of the coronary arteries during CT scanning.
Calcium Scoring: In addition to assessing coronary artery anatomy, CTCA can also measure coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, which is a marker of coronary artery disease severity.
Assessment of Coronary Plaque Characteristics: Advanced CT techniques can provide information about the composition and characteristics of coronary artery plaques, helping to stratify cardiovascular risk.

How Does CT Coronary Angiography Work?

During a CT Coronary Angiography, the patient lies on a motorized table that is inserted into the CT scanner. X-ray beams are directed through the body, and detectors on the opposite side of the scanner measure the amount of radiation that passes through the tissues. Contrast dye is injected into a vein to highlight the coronary arteries, and the CT scanner captures detailed images of the heart and coronary arteries. These images are then reconstructed into three-dimensional views that can be analyzed by a radiologist or cardiologist.
At Vedmed Diagnostic in Virar, we offer state-of-the-art CT Coronary Angiography services performed by experienced radiologists and technologists. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and receive accurate diagnosis and evaluation of coronary artery disease.