CT coronary angiography (CTA) is a newly developed technique for non-invasive evaluation of coronary artery disease. At Ascot Radiology, we use a state of the art multi-detector CT system to acquire high-resolution images of the heart and great vessels. This advanced technology is being used more and more to identify calcified and non-calcified plaques in the coronary arteries or to exclude the possibility of artery narrowing due to atherosclerosis. Early stages of coronary atherosclerosis can be detected before the development of coronary arterial narrowing.
Indications
The CT coronary angiography may be employed in a variety of clinical settings.
Identify narrowing of coronary arteries
Identify build up of plaque in the coronary arteries before the development of arterial narrowing
Evaluate bypass grafts after coronary artery bypass surgery
Evaluate congenital anomalies of the coronary arteries or great vessels.
Coronary vein assessment for pacemaker implantation
Detect aortic aneurysm or dissection
Preparing for the procedure
You will be asked to have no food or fluids for 4 hours prior to the scan, and no products containing caffeine for 24 hours prior to the scan (i.e. coffee, tea, chocolate and energy drinks). You will also be asked to complete a safety questionnaire to identify any allergies to foods, drugs, and iodine and in certain situations, you may need a blood test to assess kidney function prior to the scan. Please note:
• If you have a pacemaker or defibrillator, you will need to inform the booking office staff, as we need to organise the procedure at least 1 week in advance.
• Please inform us if you are taking any medications that are contraindicated with using nitrates.
