Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography also called coronary CTA or cardiac CTA, i a cutting-edge non-invasive diagnostic imaging test that uses CT technology to visualize the coronary arteries and heart anatomy. It is used to diagnose and assess a variety of heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, congenital heart disease, and valvular heart disease.
What is Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography?
Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (Cardiac CTA) offers a noninvasive means to assess coronary arteries and guide cardiology care. The procedure involves the administration of a contrast dye to enhance the visibility of blood vessels during imaging. By capturing multiple images rapidly, Cardiac CTA produces high-resolution, three-dimensional views of the coronary arteries, heart chambers, and other cardiac structures.
Applications of Cardiac CTA
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Evaluation
One of the primary applications of Cardiac CTA is the evaluation of coronary artery disease. It provides detailed images of the coronary arteries, helping identify the presence of arterial plaque, stenosis, or other abnormalities.
- Structural Heart Assessment
Cardiac CTA is instrumental in assessing the structure and function of the heart, including the valves, chambers, and surrounding structures. It aids in the diagnosis of congenital heart conditions and other structural abnormalities.
- Preoperative Planning
Cardiac CTA is an important tool when it comes to preoperative planning for cardiac surgeries and interventions. It provides surgeons with valuable insights into the patient's cardiac anatomy, facilitating more precise and individualized treatment strategies.
- Evaluation of Cardiac Anomalies
For patients with suspected cardiac anomalies or abnormalities, Cardiac CTA offers a non-invasive and comprehensive method for diagnosis and characterization.
Risks & Benefits of Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography
While Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (Cardiac CTA) is a valuable diagnostic tool, it may not suit everyone. Individuals with impaired kidney function, contrast dye allergies, or specific medical conditions might require alternative imaging methods. It's important to talk to your doctor about your medical history and potential risks before undergoing this procedure.
Benefits of Cardiac CTA
- Non-Invasive Nature
Unlike traditional angiography, Cardiac CTA is a non-invasive procedure that eliminates the need for catheter insertion into the blood vessels. This reduces the risk of complications and promotes patient comfort.
- Higher Accuracy
Cardiac CTA provides high-quality images, allowing for accurate and detailed assessment of cardiac structures. It is particularly valuable in detecting coronary artery disease and guiding treatment decisions.
- Efficiency
The imaging process is swift, and Cardiac CTA provides rapid results, enabling timely diagnosis and intervention planning.
- Treatment Guidance
It can be used to guide treatment decisions, such as whether to perform coronary angiography or surgery.
Risks of Cardiac CTA
- Allergic reaction to the contrast dye
- Radiation exposure
- Kidney damage (in people with kidney disease)
What to Expect Before, During, and After Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography
The Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (Cardiac CTA) scan itself is a painless procedure, typically lasting around 10 minutes. When the contrast dye is injected, you might experience a warm sensation, and some individuals may encounter mild flushing, nausea, or a headache. These side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own.
To ensure optimal imaging,you must abstain from all caffeine for 24 hours before the test. You will also need to fast for 4-6 hours before the scheduled test time, though you may drink water. During the scan, you'll recline on a table that smoothly slides into a CT scanner. A contrast dye will be injected into a vein in your arm to help the blood vessels show up more clearly on the images. The CT scanner will then take a series of X-rays from different angles. The images will be combined to create a 3D model of your heart and blood vessels.
After your scan, you can go home and resume your normal activities. You should drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast dye from your body. Depending on your situation and the instructions of your doctor, you may need to take medication to prevent kidney stones.
Am I a Candidate for Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography?
To determine if you are a candidate for Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (Cardiac CTA), a thorough assessment of your medical history, symptoms, and risk factors is necessary. Your doctor will evaluate your suitability for Cardiac CTA based on these factors. Here are some key considerations that can help determine if you are a candidate for Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography:
- You are experiencing cardiac-related symptoms.
If you experience symptoms suggestive of coronary artery disease, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness, Cardiac CTA may be recommended to evaluate the condition of your coronary arteries.
- You have Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) risk factors.
If you have known risk factors for coronary artery disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, Cardiac CTA may be considered to assess your risk and detect any potential blockages.
- You received abnormal results from previous tests.
If you have had an abnormal echocardiogram or stress test, Cardiac CTA may be recommended to provide more detailed images of your heart and blood vessels.
- You have atypical symptoms or uncertain diagnosis.
Individuals with symptoms that are not clearly indicative of a specific heart condition may benefit from Cardiac CTA to aid in diagnosis. - You need post-treatment monitoring.
After cardiac interventions or surgeries, Cardiac CTA may be used for follow-up imaging to evaluate the success of the procedure and identify any potential issues.
Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography
If you're experiencing symptoms, have risk factors, or need a comprehensive assessment of your cardiovascular health, Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (Cardiac CTA) could provide the insights you need. Request an appointment with our cardiologists today to discover if this procedure is right for you.