Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA)

Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) is a non-invasive medical imaging test that uses X-rays and computed tomography (CT) technology to produce detailed images of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart.

Indications

• Evaluation of chest pain or suspected coronary artery disease
• Assessment of coronary artery anatomy before surgery or other procedures
• Monitoring of coronary artery disease progression or regression over time
• Detection of coronary artery anomalies or congenital abnormalities

Procedure

The CCTA procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. The patient is positioned on a CT scanner table and asked to remain still and hold their breath for short periods.
2. A contrast agent (usually iodine-based) is injected into a vein in the arm to highlight the coronary arteries.
3. The CT scanner takes rapid X-ray images of the heart and coronary arteries as the contrast agent flows through them.
4. The images are then reconstructed into detailed, three-dimensional pictures of the coronary arteries using specialized computer software.

Benefits

• Non-invasive, reducing the risk of complications compared to traditional angiography
• Less expensive than traditional angiography
• Faster procedure time, typically taking around 15-30 minutes
• Highly accurate in detecting coronary artery disease and other abnormalities

Risks and Limitations

• Allergic reactions to the contrast agent
• Kidney damage or dysfunction due to the contrast agent
• Radiation exposure from the CT scanner
• Limited spatial resolution, which may lead to false negatives or positives in certain cases
• Cannot be used in patients with severe kidney disease or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding

Interpretation of Results

The results of a CCTA are typically interpreted by a radiologist or cardiologist, who will look for signs of coronary artery disease, such as:

• Narrowing or blockages in the coronary arteries
• Plaque buildup or calcification in the arterial walls
• Anomalies or congenital abnormalities in the coronary arteries

The results are usually reported as a percentage of stenosis (narrowing) in each coronary artery segment, and may also include information on the presence and extent of plaque buildup or calcification.