Computed Tomography scan or a CT scan is an advanced diagnostic technique which uses ionizing radiation or X-rays to diagnose the normal and abnormal structures in the human body. Cardiac CT scan is a specialized CT scan which is exclusively used to image the heart and its structure to identify any abnormalities in the normal functioning of the heart.
What are the uses of a cardiac CT scan ?
A cardiac CT scan lays emphasis on diagnosing the ailments of the heart precisely and accurately. A cardiac CT scan can also be used to measure the calcium build up in the blood vessels by a special calcium score screening heart scan and also CT is used to guide angiography and angioplasty procedures in individuals affected with coronary artery disease.
When is a cardiac CT scan advised ?
A cardiac CT scan is advised in the below mentioned scenarios.
- Chronic chest pain
- Breathlessness and restlessness
- History of a cardiac disease
- Low and moderate risk of coronary heart disease
- Monitoring cardiac treatments and recovery
- Pediatric cardiac diseases
- When cardiac diagnostics tests are inconclusive of any diagnosis
When is a cardiac CT scan not advised ?
A cardiac CT scan is not advised in individuals who are at a risk of developing cancer due to radiation exposure and in women who are pregnant as a CT scan uses X-ray radiation which can harm the growth and development of the fetus.
How do you prepare for a cardiac CT scan ?
Before getting the cardiac CT scan done, your doctor or your cardiologist will do your complete a physical and general examination to see if you are a suitable candidate for the same. You will be asked to avoid taking caffeine and stop smoking as it may affect the outcome of the test. It is also important to ask your treating doctor about the risks and benefits of the same before deciding to get a cardiac CT scan. Patients who are claustrophobic should ask their doctor about the details of the procedure.
What happens during a cardiac CT scan ?
You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie down on a examination table, which usually has the CT scanner fitted on top of it. The CT scanner is a box shaped machine which moves as when the images are captured. The table you will be made to lie on moves inside a tunnel like structure during imaging. The technician will attach the ECG electrodes to your chest to record the activities of heart during the procedure, which also helps in appropriate imaging of the heart muscles. The entire test take about 15-20 minutes and then the images captured on the scanner are reported by the radiologist.
Who reports a cardiac CT scan ?
A cardiac CT scan is usually reported by a radiologist or your cardiologist, and the reported either on the same day or as per the hospital’s policy.
What are the risks associated with cardiac CT scan ?
It is a diagnostic procedure which uses X-ray’s for imaging of the heart, hence exposure to radiation can result in major or minor side effects. Claustrophobic patients might have the fear and uncomfortable feeling during the test; hence it is important to understand the procedure before going ahead with it.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
