What is Coronary CT Angiography (CTA)?

Coronary Angio CT, also known as Coronary CT Angiography (CTA), is a medical imaging technique used to visualize the coronary arteries and diagnose various heart conditions. It combines computed tomography (CT) scanning with the use of contrast agents to create detailed images of the coronary arteries and detect any abnormalities or blockages.

During a Coronary Angio CT procedure, a contrast agent is injected into the patient’s bloodstream, which helps to highlight the coronary arteries. The patient is then positioned on a scanning table that moves through a large CT scanner. The scanner takes a series of X-ray images as it rotates around the patient’s body. These images are then processed by a computer to create detailed 3D images of the coronary arteries.

The resulting images allow doctors to assess the health of the coronary arteries, identify any narrowings or obstructions (known as stenosis), and detect the presence of plaque buildup or calcifications. Coronary Angio CT can also provide information about the size and location of any blockages, as well as the overall condition of the heart and its structures.

One of the significant advantages of Coronary CT Angiography is that it is a non-invasive procedure, meaning it does not require any invasive catheterization or surgery. It offers a safe and relatively quick alternative to conventional invasive angiography, which involves threading a catheter through the blood vessels to directly visualize the coronary arteries. Coronary Angio CT also provides high-resolution images and can detect both significant and subtle blockages in the coronary arteries.

Coronary Angio CT is commonly used in the diagnosis and evaluation of coronary artery disease (CAD), which is caused by the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart. It helps in determining the severity and extent of blockages and aids in treatment planning, including determining the need for interventions such as angioplasty, stenting, or coronary artery bypass grafting.

In summary, Coronary Angio CT is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses CT scanning and contrast agents to visualize the coronary arteries. It plays a crucial role in diagnosing and assessing coronary artery disease, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring the effectiveness of interventions.