CORONARY CT ANGIOGRAPHY

Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) is a powerful tool that uses CT technology to visualize blood flow through the small arteries that feed nutrients to the heart muscle.

A CCTA exam is a non-invasive procedure that examines the walls of the coronary arteries to evaluate the presence of hard and soft plaque. Information from the exam can help your provider determine your risk of a heart attack and develop a treatment plan

Should I get a coronary CT angiogram?

Your physician may recommend the exam if you have:

  • An intermediate to high-risk profile with no typical coronary symptoms

  • Chest pain, or inconclusive results from a stress test

  • Unusual symptoms for CAD, but low to intermediate risk profiles

  • Coronary artery anomalies

  • The need for pre-surgical coronary risk evaluation

  • CABG and stent patency

  • Possible subclinical disease (e.g. family history of heart disease, abnormal lipid profile, chronic smoking, or diabetes)

What should I expect?

About one hour prior to the exam, you may be given a beta blocker medication (Metoprolol). You will be connected to a heart monitor. You will rest quietly until you reach a slow, even heartbeat. This helps ensure clear images. Next, you will lie on the CT table for the scan. During the scan, you will receive a dose of nitroglycerin spray. You will also receive contrast material through an IV, which helps enhance viewing of the coronary arteries. While you receive the IV contrast, the CT tube inside the scanner will rotate around your chest to capture detailed images of your cardiovascular system. To avoid blurry images, you will be asked to hold your breath for 10-15 second intervals and to remain as still as possible throughout the exam. This exam will take approximately 5-8 minutes.

After the exam, expect to wait an additional 15-30 minutes for observation.

A coronary radiologist will review the imaging results and send a report to your physician. Your physician will receive the results and determine appropriate treatment options for heart disease. This may include diet and lifestyle changes, medication, and/or further testing.

How do I prepare?

  • Do not drink or eat four (4) hours before your exam.

  • Do not consume caffeine or nicotine starting at midnight on the day of the exam.

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may be given a gown to wear during your study.

  • Leave metal objects like jewelry, eyeglasses, and hairpins at home—metal objects can affect the results of the exam. Receive a blood test prior to the exam if you are over 60 years of age, diabetic, or have kidney disease.

  • Inform your physician and the CT technologist of all your current medications and allergies, especially to contrast materials.

  • Inform the nurse or technologist of any recent illnesses, medical conditions, and history of heart disease, asthma, diabetes, or kidney disease.

  • Notify the technologist immediately if you could be pregnant.