CT Angiogram
What is CT Angiography and what is it used for?
CT angiography (CTA) utilizes ultra fast CT scanners, which allows the heart to be “stopped in motion”. 3,000 slices of the heart are generated and computers construct three-dimensional images of your heart and arteries. This extremely safe procedure has replaced hospital catheterizations in the diagnosis of blocked arteries.
Utilizing the Dual Source, 128 Slice Scanner at Prestonwood Imaging allows the patient to be imaged without pre-test medications unless they have an allergy to contrast dye. After an IV is administered, the patient is placed on the table and taught to breath properly. Approximately 80 cc of contrast is injected over 10 seconds and the test is done.
Total time is 10-15 minutes.
We will discuss use of this new technology with respect to the heart, abdomen and arteries in the legs or arms.
What type of equipment is used for CT Angiography?
The standard of care for the last five years has been the use of 64-slice CT scanners. The latest and best machine to date is the Dual Source Siemens unit which is equivalent to 128 slice machine.
This machine allows us to obtain clearer pictures with less radiation. In addition, when studying the heart, the patient does not need to take medication to slow their heart rate as is needed with the 64 slice machines.
Prestonwood Imaging, part of HeartFirst, utilizes the Dual Source (128 Slice) CTA scanner.
Who should have a Coronary CTA versus a Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) score?
The American Heart Association recommends patients with “Intermediate Risk for Heart Disease” have a screening Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) score to further assess their individual risk. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE RISK QUESTIONNAIRE AND ASSESS YOUR RISK.
CAC score is a 5 second CT of the heart using the Dual Source Scanner. No contrast, and thus no IV is needed. Scores over 100 place the patient at “High Risk” instead of intermediate risk. CAC identifies the hard, calcified plaque, but does not assess the more dangerous soft plaque.
Patients who want to know the exact amount of soft and hard plaque, in addition to assessment of the valves, muscles and any congenital abnormalities, would benefit from a Coronary CTA.
In addition the following patients should consider a Coronary CTA:
- Those with non-diagnostic or equivocal stress echo and or nuclear stress testing.
- Patients with a weakened heart to assess for blocked arteries.
- Patients who need major surgery and do not have the ability to undergo a stress test.
- Patients with stents or bypass grafts, and having problems similar to their original complaints.
CTA CAROTIDS
Patients who have had strokes or sound waves showing moderate to severe plaque in their carotid arteries will be recommended to obtain a CTA of the carotid arteries. This will determine if further intervention is needed such as surgery or stent placement with out going into the hospital. 128 Slice, Dual Source CTA will give your physicians the best pictures available to make further decisions regarding the care of your carotid arteries.
CTA ABDOMEN
Patients who have abdominal pain or the need to assess their kidneys because of high blood pressure or to assess potential aneurysms of the large aorta will benefit from the 128 Slice Dual Source CTA. These pictures will allow your physicians to determine the cause of your problems.
Examples include assessing the arteries to the kidneys known as the renal arteries for blockages that can cause high blood pressure. Patients with a family history of aneurysm should be screened as aneurysms run in families and are potentially life threatening.
CTA of the LEGS
Patients with peripheral arterial disease (now known as PAD) which is an uncomfortable, tired, crampy or painful feeling in our legs with exertion will benefit from a CTA of the arteries feeding the legs.
These pictures will allow your physician to determine whether you need a specialized cardiologist who can approach your problem with a balloon and/or stent versus needing a vascular surgeon who will discuss surgical options for your disease.
