What is a CT Angiogram?
A computerized tomography (CT) coronary angiogram is an imaging test to look at the arteries that
supply your heart muscle with blood. Unlike a traditional coronary angiogram, CT angiograms don't use a
catheter threaded through your blood vessels to your heart. Instead, a coronary CT angiogram relies on a
powerful X-ray machine to produce images of your heart and heart vessels. CT angiograms don't require
the recovery time needed with traditional angiograms. Coronary CT angiograms are becoming a common
option for people with a variety of heart conditions.
CT angiograms will expose you to a small amount of radiation.
Why a CT Angiogram?
A coronary CT angiogram is a test that can check your heart for various conditions, but it's primarily used
to check for narrowed arteries in your heart (coronary artery disease) that could explain chest pain or
could put you at risk of a heart attack.
Coronary CT angiograms are sometimes used in place of traditional coronary angiograms to check for
coronary artery disease.
Preparation:
- You may require blood work done prior to your CT Angio. You will receive a requisition from your Cardiologist.
- Arrive 1 hour prior before booking time.
- Bring a list of medications.
- Have a responsible adult to accompany and provide transportation after test.
- You will be in the department for at least 3 hours.
- No solid food 4 hours prior to CT. May have clear fluids (no caffeine) and regular medications.
- No exercise on the morning of the CT.
- No smoking
- No caffeine (coffee or colas)
- No alcohol
- No Levitra, Viagra, or Cialis
12 hours prior to CT:
48 hours prior to CT:
** You may be required to take an extra prescription the night before the exam and the morning of the exam. Please contact your Cardiologists office to confirm if you are in need of this medication.