Finding the right tests…
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Finding the right tests…
CT Scan
Chest pain with a normal or unclear ECG and blood test is one of the more common reasons this scan gets ordered - it images the arteries that supply blood to your own heart muscle, using an iodine contrast injection. RadiologyInfo.org describes coronary CTA as a way to detect plaque buildup narrowing these arteries without the catheter that a traditional coronary angiogram requires threaded through a groin or wrist artery. It's generally chosen for people with a low to intermediate risk of coronary artery disease rather than those already known to need a procedure. Because contrast is iodine-based, kidney function and any past contrast reaction matter here.
This scan images your coronary arteries - the vessels supplying blood to your heart muscle - after an iodine contrast injection outlines them clearly. It shows whether plaque has narrowed an artery and, if so, roughly how much, without needing a catheter threaded into your heart.
Coronary CTA looks specifically at the arteries feeding your own heart muscle, checking for plaque - a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and calcium along the artery wall - that narrows or blocks blood flow. RadiologyInfo.org describes it as the way doctors detect this plaque buildup non-invasively.
A traditional coronary angiogram threads a catheter into an artery in the groin or wrist and up to the heart, which carries its own procedural risks. This CT version images the same arteries from outside the body, using contrast injected into a vein instead. RadiologyInfo.org notes it avoids the complications tied to catheter placement, though if a real blockage is found, it can't be treated in the same sitting the way a catheter procedure sometimes can.
This scan fits best when the risk of coronary artery disease is low to intermediate, or when chest pain shows up with test results that aren't clear-cut. MedlinePlus lists coronary CTA among the standard tests used to diagnose coronary artery disease alongside echocardiography.
The iodine contrast can affect kidney function in some people whose kidneys are already impaired, so mention any kidney issues or past contrast reactions to your doctor. Like any CT, there's some radiation exposure - tell your doctor if there's any chance you're pregnant.
A traditional angiogram threads a catheter into an artery in your groin or wrist up to the heart. This CT version images the same arteries from outside the body using an IV contrast injection instead, avoiding catheter-related risks.
No. If a significant narrowing is found, radiologyinfo.org notes it can't be treated in the same sitting - a separate procedure would be needed, unlike some catheter-based angiograms.
It fits best for people with a low to intermediate risk of coronary artery disease, or chest pain with test results that aren't clear-cut. Your doctor decides based on your specific risk factors.
It's generally safe, though it can affect kidney function in people whose kidneys are already impaired. Mention any kidney problems or past contrast reactions to your doctor beforehand.
This page is general information about the test, not medical advice. Your own report's reference ranges apply — please discuss your results with your doctor.
Yes, CT uses X-rays, so there is some radiation exposure. Tell your doctor if there's any chance you're pregnant.
Preparation can include heart rate control before the scan. Ask your doctor or the centre directly about what applies to you.
It shows whether plaque has built up inside your coronary arteries and narrowed them, which helps your doctor assess your risk of a heart attack.