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A computed tomography (CT) scan is an X-ray technique that produces images of your internal organs that are more detailed than those produced by conventional X-ray exams. By having a cardiac CTA scan (CT angiography) at The Christ Hospital, you can identify your risk for heart disease and make lifestyle changes that will greatly reduce your chances of suffering a heart attack, stroke or other forms of heart and vascular disease. Christ Hospital is dedicated to delivering the most comprehensive patient care by utilizing state-of-the-art medical technology for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart and vascular disease.
What is cardiac CTA?
Cardiac CTA (CT angiography) is a noninvasive diagnostic option that avoids the time, inconvenience and possible complications of an angiogram. The cardiac CTA is a simple10 - 20 minute exam that provides images for a fast, accurate evaluation of the coronary blood vessels in most patients. Cardiac CTA detects calcified and non-calcified soft plaques in the arteries of the heart and shows narrowing of the coronary blood vessels caused by plaque build-up.
Why did my doctor recommend a cardiac CTA?
Compared to the catheter angiography, the cardiac CTA achieves high image quality with less preparation time and no recovery time. Cardiac CTA is not a screening exam. Medical indications for the exam include atypical chest pain, coronary disease risk factors or developmental variation of the coronary arteries.
How does the cardiac CTA detect heart disease?
The cardiac CTA scan detects soft plaque, calcified deposits, and narrowing of the arteries, which are predictors of heart disease.
How is the procedure performed?
This simple 10 to 20 minute examination is performed with an intravenous injection of contrast material through an IV to highlight the coronary arteries. Prior to the exam you will be given an oral medication to slightly lower your heart rate for better imaging.
The examination table will move into and out of the scanner opening, but it is not enclosed, and only a small part of your body will be inside at any one time. You may be requested to hold your breath during imaging to eliminate any unnecessary movement caused by respiration, but this is typically required for only a few seconds. The IV is removed and your scan is then complete.
How do I obtain my results?
Specially trained physicians interpret the results of your cardiac CTA. A report will be sent to your referring physician who will then contact you to review the results.
To schedule an appointment, please call 513-585-2668. If you are interested in more information, the CT department can be reached at 513-585-2641. For more details about cardiac CTA and other imaging procedures, visit us at www.TheChristHospital.com.
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