Your Coronary CT Angiogram

Why it was ordered

Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) can help evaluate selected patients with possible coronary disease. It shows artery anatomy, including calcified and noncalcified plaque, and estimates narrowing. A calcium scan and CCTA answer different questions.

Before your appointment

Follow the center's instructions on food, caffeine and medicines. Tell the team about previous reactions to iodinated contrast, kidney disease, pregnancy possibility and all medicines, including erectile-dysfunction drugs. Blood tests may be needed.

The team may use medication to slow the heart rate or nitroglycerin to improve artery imaging when appropriate. Do not make those medication changes yourself.

During the scan

An IV delivers contrast while you lie on a CT table and follow short breath-hold instructions. Contrast can cause a brief warm feeling. The test involves radiation and potential contrast-related risks, which your team will weigh against its expected benefit.

Understanding your report

The report may describe plaque, the location and degree of narrowing, and whether image quality limits interpretation. Calcium, motion or other factors can make some segments difficult to assess.

An anatomic narrowing does not always tell us its effect on blood flow. Depending on the findings, further functional assessment or invasive angiography may be considered. Not every plaque finding requires a procedure.

What happens next

Review the result with the ordering clinician and agree on prevention, symptom treatment and any additional testing. Contact the imaging team for concerns after contrast. Severe chest symptoms, trouble breathing or fainting require urgent assessment; call 911.

Questions for your next visit

• What question will CCTA answer in my case?
• Do my kidneys, contrast history or medicines affect preparation?
• What do the findings change about my care?

Keep reading

• Your Coronary Calcium Scan
• Your Stress Test
• Coronary Artery Disease