Non-Invasive CT Angiography

What is Non-invasive CT Angiography?

Non-invasive CT Angiography is a technique which shows the blood vessels of the body in depth, without any discomfort to the patient. The scan takes a few minutes to perform but the information it provides is very detailed and important.

In what conditions Non-invasive CT Angiography is performed?

CT coronary angiogram is absolutely helpful in the diagnosis of various heart diseases, especially atherosclerosis. It is effective in identifying the blocked arteries in the heart. The reason for blockage can be the plaque accumulation or the calcium or cholesterol deposits. CT coronary angiogram is recommended by the doctor to identify the following problems:

Blocked or narrowed arteries supplying blood to the heart
Chest pains
Irregular heart rate or arrhythmias
Inadequate supply of oxygen and blood to the heart
Difficulty in breathing
Dizziness
Fainting
Risk of heart attack

How should you prepare for CT Angiography?

You are not allowed to eat anything at least 4 hours before the procedure and you can drink water but caffeinated beverages are prohibited. Because the heart rate can be increased with caffeine
The physician will ask you to remove the ornaments from your body or can also tell you to wear a loose gown so that the procedure can take place without any interruptions.
If you are diabetic, it is important to inform your doctor if insulin is to be taken before the procedure or not.
Inform your doctor about any past allergies or surgeries, if any.
Your pulse rate, temperature, blood pressure, breathing rate, are checked before the coronary angiogram.
Your urinary bladder should be empty during the procedure.

How It Works?

A CT scanner uses a combination of a high-tech X-ray scanner and sophisticated computer analysis to provide detailed, 3D images of your moving heart and major blood vessels.

What to expect during the CT angiography?

The CT scan machine looks like a doughnut. You will be asked to lie on the bed. The helper will place electrodes on your chest to record your heart rate. When you will be lied to properly, the helper leaves the scanning room. The technician present in the control room can see you through a glass window. If there is no visibility to the scanning room from the control room patients are fully monitored through a closed circuit television screen. The technician can communicate with you through an intercom.

FAQ

Is CT angiography reliable?

The authors stated that noninvasive CT angiography was almost as accurate as conventional angiography.

Are there any side effects of a CT angiogram?

A very little amount of radiation enters your body.
There is a less chance that you get an allergic reaction from the dye.

Is it painful?

No it is not at all painful. You’ll have some local anaesthetic injected in your wrist through a tiny needle, and once it’s numb a small incision will be made, in order to insert the catheter.