Coronary Computed Tomography Angiogram FAQs
What is a coronary computed tomography angiogram?
A coronary computed tomography angiogram, also known as a CTA, is a minimally invasive procedure that combines computed tomography with a contrast dye to produce detailed images of blood vessels throughout the body and determine if any narrowing has occurred as a result of calcium or fat build-up. During the procedure, pictures are taken from several different angles; the pictures are then joined together to create a cross-sectional, detailed image of the area. The dye is injected through an intravenous, or IV, line started in either the arm or hand.
Why Is a CTA performed?
A CTA is typically administered if an abnormality is suspected or has been discovered in the blood vessels of the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, or other parts of the body. Doctors use the information the CTA provides to make an precise diagnosis and decide on the appropriate treatment for the patient's condition. Some of the disorders a CTA may detect are atherosclerosis, aneurysms, damaged blood vessels, embolisms, renal disease and tumors fed by blood vessels.
Apart from important diagnostic applications, a CTA can also be used to plan intricate operations, such as a coronary bypass, and to help guide surgeons as they make repairs to blood vessels and implant stents and other treatment materials.
What is the preparation for a CTA?
On the day of the CT angiogram, patients should wear loose clothing and should remove all metal objects, including jewelry, eyeglasses and hair clips. Hearing aids and other removable medical devices may need to be removed as well. Unless otherwise told, patients should stop eating six hours prior to the exam, but can continue to drink clear liquids in order to protect the organs and allow fluid to travel easily through the blood vessels. It is important to notify the physician of any recent illnesses or long-term medical conditions before undergoing this procedure.
What happens during a CTA?
Before the procedure begins, the doctor will administer a small amount of contrast material through intravenous injection, and wait for it to travel to the targeted area. The patient will lie on the exam table and will be moved through the CT machine, which rapidly obtains images of the area. The patient may be asked to hold their breath while the images are being taken. The cross-sectional images are then reconstructed to create a 3D image of the area. The entire CT angiogram procedure takes 20 to 30 minutes to perform.
What are the benefits of a CTA?
A CT angiogram produces detailed images of the blood vessels that can help detect narrowing and other abnormalities early enough to provide effective treatment, often before surgical intervention is required. CTA is less invasive than other types of angiogram procedures and provides more detailed results as well, making it an ideal choice for many patients.
Are there any risks to a CTA?
For most patients, a CTA is a very safe procedure, but, like all surgical procedures, it involves a certain amount of risk. Since contrast dye may damage the kidneys, patients with diabetes or severe kidney disease may not be able to have this test administered. Patients who are pregnant or nursing need to notify their physicians before undergoing this procedure. Risks for other individuals, though rare, are related to the contrast material which may cause allergic reactions or, in the event of leakage at the intravenous site, tissue damage.
