What is a cardiac CT angiography?
A cardiac computerized tomography (CT) angiography, or CCTA is a noninvasive imaging test that looks at how blood flows through your heart and helps identify hard and soft plaques that may be narrowing your arteries. It uses a CT scan, which is an x-ray test to create images of your blood vessels by using a nontoxic contrast dye. When the dye is injected, it helps any blockages within your blood vessels or any abnormalities more visible.
Who needs a cardiac CT angiography
You may need a cardiac CT angiography if your physician:
- Suspects you have narrowed or blocked coronary arteries
- You have abnormal test results from other cardiac testing such as echocardiograms, electrocardiograms or cardiac stress testing
- You are at risk for developing coronary artery disease
- You have cardiac-related symptoms or suspected heart abnormalities that may be concerning to your physician
Cardiac CT angiography may also be recommended for pre-surgical purposes such as stent placement.
What are the risks of a cardiac CT angiography?
With any test there is some risk, however the risk for a cardiac CT angiography are low. There is some exposure to radiation which could increase your likelihood of developing cancer over time, however the risk is relatively low. Some patients may experience adverse reactions to the contrast material, such as allergic reactions which may trigger rash or itching – in extremely rare conditions, anaphylaxis may result. Kidney problems are also a rare side effect and usually occur in patients who have a pre-existing kidney condition. As with other types of x-rays, there is an inherent risk to unborn babies if this test is done on a mother who is pregnant. Women may be asked to take a pregnancy test prior to completion of this test.
How do I prepare for a cardiac CT angiography?
Prior to your test, your provider will review instructions with you. They may ask you to refrain from eating or drinking before your test. They may also ask that you do not drink caffeine or exercise strenuously prior to your test. As with any procedure, you should always discuss any concerns, allergies or health conditions, especially if you are pregnant, plan to be pregnant or become pregnant between the time when the test is scheduled and completed. Any medications should also be discussed with your provider to ensure they will not interact with the test in anyway.
Some providers may ask that you take medications that lower your heart rate, such as beta blockers. Your provider will communicate to you in advance if this is something they would recommend so you have time to obtain the prescription prior to your procedure.
The day of the test, please come prepared in comfortable clothing that is easy to remove. Plan to leave any metal such as jewelry, glasses, piercings, etc. at home or with a loved one during your test as they may interfere with the imaging being completed.
What should I expect during a cardiac CT angiography?
When you arrive for your test, a nurse or technologist will ask you to lie down on the table of the CT machine. A nurse or technologist will attach electrocardiogram (ECG) leads with adhesive to your chest – these will monitor your heart’s rhythm or electrical signals during the procedure. An IV will be inserted to administer the contrast dye into a vein. As the contrast dye makes its way through your body, you may feel a warm sensation – this is normal. The table will move into the CT machine and several images will be taken during this time. The nurse or technologist may ask you to hold your breath and refrain from moving at certain points as imaging is captured to help ensure clear imaging is taken. The entire procedure usually takes about 15-30 minutes.
Once the imaging is complete, your nurse or technologist with remove the IV they inserted for the contrast dye – you may be asked to wait briefly to ensure there are no immediate allergic reactions to the dye. You can then return to your normal activities.
Imaging will be analyzed by a physician to determine the health of your heart and blood vessels.