Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA) is a powerful tool used to examine the small arteries that feed nutrients to the heart muscle. Through Computed Tomography (CT) technology, we are able to visualize blood flow in the coronary arteries with greater detail than more traditional studies.

Advanced computer software manipulates the data into 3 dimensional (3D) images with exceptional quality. CCTA is a noninvasive procedure to examine the walls of the coronary arteries and evaluate the presence of hard and soft plaque. Information from the procedure can help your healthcare provider determine your risk of a heart attack and develop a treatment plan.

If coronary disease is present following a cardiovascular screening test done by your doctor, a Coronary CT Angiogram may be ordered to help with preventive management and treatment of the disease. Those recommended for the exam include:

• Patients with an intermediate to high-risk profile with no typical coronary symptoms
• Patients who have had inconclusive results from a stress test
• Patients with unusual symptoms for CAD, but low to intermediate risk profiles

Prior to a CCTA, avoid drinking or eating anything four hours before your exam. Do not consume anything containing caffeine or nicotine starting at midnight on the day of exam. Three hours proceeding, you will be given or prescribed 100 mg of a medication in order to lower your heart rate. You will also take one 0.4 mg tablet of sublingual nitroglycerin just prior to the exam and 80-120 cc of IV contrast. Following the CT exam, you should expect to wait an additional 15-30 minutes for observation.

The images from the test will be sent to a subspecialized coronary radiologist for review. Your physician will receive the results and determine appropriate treatment options for reducing the signs of heart disease. This may include diet and lifestyle changes, medication and/or further testing.