Investigation
CT Coronary Angiography
Non invasive imaging of the coronary arteries.
Overview
A coronary computed tomography angiogram (CTA) uses advanced CT technology, along with intravenous (IV) contrast material (dye), to obtain high-resolution, three-dimensional pictures of the moving heart and great vessels.
CT coronary angiogram of the Right Coronary Artery
Having an Angiogram
A CTA scan is performed with you going into a metal tube. You have to lie still to allow the pictures to be taken. A drug may need to be given to slow your heart rate down. The test involves the use of X-rays and X-ray dye, which is injected via a needle in the back of your hand. There has been great progress in taking pictures of the heart and brain blood vessels. The radiation dose of the CT scan is often equivalent the coronary angiogram. In addition, X-ray contrast dye still has to be used. However, it is less invasive than the angiogram and so will be the diagnostic tool of choice in some cases. You cannot do coronary angioplasty (PCI) guided by CT angiography alone.
What happens after
Once the images have been processed and the specialist has formed the report your cardiologist will tell feedback the result to you along with any recommendations for treatment.
How LCC Helps
We have access to the best CT scanners in London. To find out more about the various cardiac investigations we offer at LCC fill in the form below to get a quick callback: