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Coronary CT Angiography

What is Coronary CT Angiography?

Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging exam using high-resolution 3D CT or “Cat Scan” images of the moving heart, coronary arteries and large vessels (including the aorta, pulmonary arteries and veins). The test requires special preparation prior to the study to get the best possible images, including avoidance of caffeine and other medications that may increase the heart rate and degrade the image quality. A rapid IV injection of iodine-based contrast is administered during the scan to optimally display the vascular structures. In addition, medication may be administered to slow or stabilize the heart rate and improve image quality.

Please note this exam is not the same as a Coronary CT for Calcium Scoring, which is a screening test to determine if calcified plaque is present.

Coronary CT Angiography

What is the primary use of a Coronary CT Angiography?

CCTA is used to determine the presence or absence of soft (fatty) or calcified plaque in the coronary arteries, the vessels that carry blood directly to the heart muscle itself. It can measure areas of narrowing or “stenosis” of the arteries and determine whether symptoms of chest pain may be caused by a coronary blockage, particularly in at-risk individuals (patients with a family history of cardiac events such as heart attack, diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, smoking, and/or elevated cholesterol).

Information is acquired about the course of the arteries, the heart muscle, valves and chambers, as well as small portions of the lungs and thoracic spine. It may be possible to determine to heart’s pumping efficiency (ejection fraction) and presence an enlarged heart, abnormal valve or tumor.

The results can guide important lifestyle changes and help determine whether cardiology consultation or certain medical treatments are indicated to reduce your risk of future problems.

The Coronary CT Angiography Exam

The on-table exam time is usually 10 minutes, but you may spend additional time before the test if medication is needed to slow your heart rate. Since it is noninvasive, a coronary CTA is performed much faster than a cardiac catheterization with reduced risk and discomfort to you, a lower radiation dose (in most cases), and a faster recovery time.

Click here for exam preparation instructions, or expand the sections below for specific coronary CT angiography exam requirements.

If A.M. Appointment:

  • Drink half of Radi-Cat at bedtime, the night before the exam.
  • Drink remaining half 2 hours prior to exam time.
  • After drinking the second half, do not eat or drink anything else. Including no water, gum, or hard candies.
  • Take all medications except diabetic meds containing metformin or glucophage.
  • The Radi-Cat is better tasting when chilled. DO NOT USE IF SEAL IS BROKEN OR MISSING.

If P.M. Appointment (12pm or Later):

  • Drink half of Radi-Cat 6 hours before exam time.
  • Drink remaining half 2 hours prior to exam time.
  • After drinking the second half, do not eat or drink anything else. Including no water, gum, or hard candies.
  • Take all medications except diabetic meds containing metformin or glucophage.
  • The Radi-Cat is better tasting when chilled. DO NOT USE IF SEAL IS BROKEN OR MISSING.
  • Nothing to eat 2 hours prior to exam (Including no gum or hard candies), but you can drink water up to the time of your appointment.
  • You may take all current medications.
  • No prep necessary.

For more information about Coronary CT Angiography exams or other services offered by Regional Medical Imaging, contact us today!

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