Coronary computed tomographic angiography

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography[edit | edit source]

Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography (CCTA) is a non-invasive imaging technique used to visualize the coronary arteries of the heart. It employs advanced computed tomography (CT) technology to obtain high-resolution images of the coronary vessels, allowing for the assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD).

History[edit | edit source]

The development of CCTA began in the late 20th century with the advent of multi-detector CT (MDCT) technology. The first clinical applications of CCTA were reported in the early 2000s, and since then, it has become an important tool in the diagnosis and management of CAD.

Indications[edit | edit source]

CCTA is primarily indicated for patients with suspected coronary artery disease, particularly those with intermediate risk. It is used to:

  • Evaluate chest pain of uncertain origin.
  • Assess coronary artery anomalies.
  • Plan for coronary interventions or surgeries.
  • Evaluate graft patency in patients with previous coronary artery bypass grafting.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The CCTA procedure involves the following steps: 1. Patient Preparation: Patients may be asked to fast for a few hours before the scan. Beta-blockers may be administered to lower heart rate for optimal imaging. 2. Contrast Administration: An iodine-based contrast agent is injected intravenously to enhance the visibility of coronary arteries. 3. Image Acquisition: The patient lies on a CT table, and the scanner acquires images of the heart during a single breath-hold. 4. Image Reconstruction: Advanced software reconstructs the images, allowing for 3D visualization of the coronary arteries.

Advantages[edit | edit source]

  • Non-invasive: Unlike traditional coronary angiography, CCTA does not require catheterization.
  • High Sensitivity and Specificity: CCTA provides detailed images that can accurately detect coronary artery stenosis.
  • Rapid: The entire procedure can be completed in a short time, often within 30 minutes.

Limitations[edit | edit source]

  • Radiation Exposure: Although modern techniques have reduced radiation doses, CCTA still involves exposure to ionizing radiation.
  • Contrast Reactions: There is a risk of allergic reactions to the contrast agent.
  • Limited Functional Information: CCTA provides anatomical but not functional information about blood flow.

Comparison with Other Modalities[edit | edit source]

CCTA is often compared with other imaging modalities such as invasive coronary angiography, stress testing, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Each modality has its own advantages and limitations, and the choice depends on the clinical scenario.

Also see[edit | edit source]



Cardiovascular disease A-Z

Most common cardiac diseases

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

A[edit source]

B[edit source]

C[edit source]

D[edit source]

E[edit source]

H[edit source]

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

I[edit source]

K[edit source]

L[edit source]

M[edit source]

N[edit source]

O[edit source]

P[edit source]

R[edit source]

S[edit source]

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

T[edit source]

V[edit source]

W[edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Retrieved from "https://wikimd.com/w/index.php?title=Coronary_computed_tomographic_angiography&oldid=6020800"

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD