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CT Scan for Coronary Artery Disease

Computerized tomography (CT) scans help physicians diagnose coronary artery disease---a serious disorder that may result in heart attack and extensive cardiovascular disease.

  1. Significance

    • Coronary arterial disease (CAD) is a blockage of arteries leading to your heart, limiting the flow of vital blood to the organ. "The narrowing is usually caused by plaque in a blood vessel," according to the American Heart Association. The buildup of cholesterol and other substances is referred to as atherosclerosis.

    Diagnosis

    • Two different CT are used to diagnose the disease, says the Mayo Clinic---electron beam computerized tomography (EBCT) or a CT coronary angiogram.

    Process

    • The EBCT detects high levels of calcium that contribute to blocked arteries, while the CT coronary angiogram utilizes an intravenously injected dye to highlight the arteries and provide your doctor with a better view.

    Evaluation

    • According to the Cleveland Clinic, the scans are used to evaluate your heart muscle, coronary arteries, pulmonary veins, thoracic and abdominal aorta, and the sac surrounding the heart.

    Risk

    • Some patients may suffer a reaction to the dye or a rash around the injection site, the Cleveland Clinic reports; more serious reactions include breathing difficulties. Pregnant women are not candidates for these tests, due to the X-rays used in the scans.

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