An overview of CT Coronary Angiogram
A CT coronary angiogram is an imaging test that uses a powerful X-ray machine to produce detailed images of the heart and its blood vessels. It is primarily used to diagnose coronary artery disease by checking for narrowed or blocked arteries in the heart. Unlike a standard coronary angiogram, this procedure is noninvasive and does not require recovery time. Numbing medication is administered, and a dye is injected into the patient's IV to enhance the visibility of blood vessels on the CT images. After the test, patients can resume their normal activities, and the images are usually available soon after the procedure.
What is CT Coronary Angiogram used for?
The purpose of a CT coronary angiogram is to check for narrowed or blocked arteries in the heart, specifically to diagnose coronary artery disease and other heart conditions. It is a noninvasive imaging test that uses a powerful X-ray machine to produce detailed images of the heart and its blood vessels. Unlike a standard coronary angiogram, which is an invasive procedure, a CT coronary angiogram does not require recovery time and can be performed in the radiology department of a hospital or an outpatient imaging facility.
How to prepare for CT Coronary Angiogram?
Before undergoing a CT coronary angiogram, patients are usually instructed to:
- Avoid eating for approximately 4 hours before the test, although water is allowed.
- Avoid consuming caffeinated beverages for 12 hours before the test.
- Inform the healthcare provider about any medications being taken, as some may need to be stopped before the test.
- Remove jewelry, glasses, and clothing above the waist and change into a hospital gown.
In some cases, patients may receive a beta blocker medication to slow down the heart rate and nitroglycerin to widen the coronary arteries prior to the procedure. During the test, patients need to remain still and hold their breath as directed. If they experience discomfort in closed spaces, they may be given medication to help them relax. After the test, patients can resume their normal activities and are advised to drink plenty of water to flush the dye from their bodies.
How is CT Coronary Angiogram conducted?
A CT coronary angiogram is conducted by first administering a beta blocker medication to slow down the heart rate, which helps produce clearer images on the CT scan. Nitroglycerin is then given to widen the coronary arteries. During the procedure, an IV is inserted into the hand or arm, and a dye is injected to make the blood vessels visible on the CT images. The patient lies on a table that slides through a CT scanner, which is a short, tunnel-like machine. Electrodes are placed on the chest to record the heart rate. Patients are required to remain still and hold their breath during the scan. After the procedure, patients can resume their normal activities and are advised to drink plenty of water to help eliminate the dye from their body.
How are CT Coronary Angiogram results reported?
The results of a CT coronary angiogram are usually discussed with the patient by the healthcare provider who requested the test. These results can indicate the presence of narrowed or blocked arteries and other heart conditions. The healthcare provider will use the results to determine the appropriate course of treatment or lifestyle changes to help protect the heart. Regardless of the results, it is important for patients to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, weight management, and controlling other risk factors for heart disease.
Understanding the report
The interpretation of a CT coronary angiogram result is performed by a healthcare provider who specializes in reading medical images, such as a radiologist. They analyze the images produced by the CT scan to assess the condition of the heart and its blood vessels. If the test suggests narrowed or blocked arteries (coronary artery disease), the healthcare provider will discuss treatment options with the patient and their family. Regardless of the results, it is important for patients to make lifestyle changes to protect their heart, such as engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing risk factors like diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.