The coronary arteries play an important role in our body. The function of the coronary arteries is to deliver blood to the heart. The obstruction in the functioning of these arteries means that when any obstruction occurs in the flow of oxygen as well as nutrients to the heart muscles, it may lead to severe levels of health issues such as coronary artery disease (CAD). Coronary artery disease, if not diagnosed and treated promptly, can result in a heart attack and heart failure. When the plaque in the inner lining of an artery builds up, it makes the artery narrow or blocked.
The blockage or narrowing of arteries can be due to various reasons, such as:
- Plaque accumulation in the arteries
- The calcium deposits
- Cholesterol deposits
CT coronary angiography is a non-invasive imaging procedure that is ideal for examining coronary arteries. It uses X-ray and computer technology to produce detailed images of the coronary arteries. This scanning procedure helps detect both hard and soft plaques in people with suspected heart health issues.
Key Points
- CT (Computer Tomography) Coronary angiography, also known as a CT coronary angiogram, is an ideal method for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease and preventing the occurrence of heart failure and heart attack.
- The contrast medium is administered to perform this scanning procedure and to make the affected arteries more visible.
- It is not recommended for pregnant women or kidney patients because of the radiation and contrast media.
- This scanning procedure takes at least one hour.
- The cost of a CT coronary angiogram at a diagnostic centre is not the same, even in the same city.
About CT Coronary Angiography
CT coronary angiography is an effective imaging method that is used to confirm whether there are plaque depositions in the coronary arteries that are associated with the heart. It is an effective procedure that uses X-ray equipment and a computer system to obtain pictures of the blood vessels and the heart to diagnose several heart-related issues at an early stage, such as atherosclerosis. This scanning procedure involves the use of a contrast solution to make the arteries more visible and detect the problem in an effective way.
Why Is CT Coronary Angiography Performed?
A CT (computed tomography) coronary angiogram is a vital diagnostic procedure that is helpful in the early detection of different heart problems that occur because of the blocking or narrowing of coronary arteries. The CT coronary angiogram is recommended by doctors for determining various conditions such as:
- Blocked or narrowed coronary arteries
- Irregular heart rate
- Inadequate oxygen and blood supply to the heart
- Suspected heart attack
This scanning procedure is also recommended if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, such as
- Breathing difficulty
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Chest pain
What Is The Procedure For CT Coronary Angiography?
- The doctor gives you beta blockers the night before your procedure and a few hours before the CT coronary angiography to lower your heart rate.
- Before the procedure, a technologist monitors your heart rate and blood pressure by placing electrodes on your body.
- The technologist then starts an intravenous line to administer the contrast dye and positions you on a scanning table.
- The technologist then leaves the room and goes to another room to operate the scanner to start the scanning procedure.
- The technologist slides the table to the scanner, and once the scan begins, the technologist gives you instructions to hold your breath for about 10–15 seconds.
- The scanner moves over the specific area and captures the pictures.
- Once the required images are collected, the technologist slides the scanning table out of the scanning machine.
- The technologist removes the electrodes from your body, may give you some instructions according to your condition, and removes the contrast dye from your body.
What Is The Preparation For CT Coronary Angiography?
- Fast for at least 4 hours before the procedure.
- Avoid taking anything that can increase the heart rate, such as caffeinated beverages.
- Remove any jewelry, eyeglasses, or other metal objects you may be wearing, etc.
- Inform the doctor about your medical history and any medications you are taking; he may instruct you to stop medication on a temporary basis.
- If you are diabetic and taking insulin, then it is necessary to ask the doctor if you have to take the insulin or not.
- Inform the doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, a kidney patient, or allergic to anything.
- The technologist instructs you to pee before the procedure and empty your urinary bladder.
How Much Time Does It Take For CT Coronary Angiography?
The whole procedure of CT coronary angiography, which includes the contrast dye administration and scanning procedure, takes around 1–1.5 hours.
What Is The Cost Of A CT Coronary Angiography?
The Cost of CT coronary angiography starts at $12,000. Still, the cost can vary because there are multiple factors that influence it.
Conclusion
A CT coronary angiogram is an imaging test to view the tissues and blood vessels that carry blood to your heart. Compared to traditional angiography, it is less invasive and provides better and more effective results that help in the diagnosis of the problem and taking preventive treatment to reduce the chance of heart attack and heart failure-like issues.
