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CT Angiography

What is CT Angiography and what is it used for?
The CT Angiography procedure is a medical test your cardiologist can perform to help determine if your heart and surrounding blood vessels are at risk of becoming blocked by plaque (cholesterol) build up.

CT Angiography uses advanced imaging technologies that can create a three-dimensional, photo-realistic image of your heart and arteries. This 3D image of your heart can assist your cardiologist in assessing your risk for specific complications, such a heart attack or stroke. Not only is the CT Angiography test extremely accurate, it is also safe and is by far one of the most advanced methods of detection available today.

How does CT Angiography work?
The CT Angiography test is made possible through the use of special equipment and procedures, and is relatively quick, simple, and virtually painless. First, a contrasting dye is injected into the patient�s arm using an IV (there are various solutions). Afterwards, the patient lies inside the CT scanner while the machine photographs the patient�s heart (or other area of the body), and creates a detailed, three-dimensional (and 4D) image that can be reviewed by a trained physician (radiologist). Using the results of your scan, a cardiologist can determine how vulnerable your heart is to plaque build up as well as view other defects in your heart and arteries.

How should I prepare for this procedure?
Your cardiologist may ask you to refrain from eating or drinking a few hours before the procedure, as it can affect the contrasting dye used in the exam. It�s also extremely important to notify your doctor of any allergies, especially those pertaining to contrasting substances such as the ones used in CT Angiographies and similar exams.

It�s best for patients to wear comfortable clothing and to remove any items that contain or could potentially contain metal, such as jewelry (earrings, braclets, watches, etc.), glasses, and so forth, prior to the exam. These items and similar objects could interfere with the imaging results produced by the CT equipment.

Is there any pain involved?
There is almost no pain involved in performing a CT Angiography. Patients may feel a slight discomfort when the contrast materials are injected (via an IV) into their arm. Discomfort is also highly dependant on how the patient�s body reacts to the contrast materials (some patients may be allergic). However, trained specialists are prepared to deal with any discomfort patients may experience arising from an allergic reaction.

Once the patient is inside the CT scanner, it does not physically come in contact with the patient, but some patients may find it difficult to hold still for the duration of the test, especially if they are claustrophobic.

What type of equipment is used for a CT Angiography?
In order to create the three-dimensional, detailed images of your heart or other areas of your body, cardiologist use the latest technologies, such as the Siemens Dual Source CT scanner or the Brilliance 64-slice CT scanner by Phillips. Both machines are at the forefront of medical imaging and can produce sharp, accurate images of any part of the body in a relatively small amount of time � sometimes in as little as five seconds!

The use of such technology has dramatically grown over the years, and is now being used to treat heart complications, cancer, and other medical conditions. CT technology is by far one of the best methods of detection and prevention.

What are the benefits and risks of a CT Angiography procedure?
Patients are now choosing to have a CT Angiography exam over traditional exams, such as an MRI or conventional angiography, because it is safer and more accurate. A CT Angiography typically produces no side effects a nd there is virtually no recovery time. And because the imagery provided by a CT Angiography is more detailed and accurate, a trained physician is able to easily and quickly diagnose any medical complications.

Just as with any medical procedure, certain risks exist. However, with a CT Angiography they are minimal and very rare. If a patient is allergic to the contrast materials used in the exam, there are other alternatives. Also, if contrast materials are not administered correctly and by a trained specialist, there could be a risk of skin damage in the surrounding areas where the contrast materials are injected.

Women should notify their physician if they are pregnant or nursing, as the radiation from the CT machines may cause complications, just as with traditional x-rays.

How does a CT Angiography vary from a traditional Angiogram?
In a traditional angiogram, the imaging results are not as sharp and accurate as those produced from a CT Angiography. The exam is more time-consuming, is accompanied by more risks (bleeding, bruises), and the procedure itself is also more complicated. A CT Angiography addresses all of these issues because it is safer, faster, far more accurate, and virtually pain-free.