Coronary CT angiography is a specialized computed tomography (CT) study that uses X-rays and, in most cases, intravenous contrast dye to create detailed pictures of the arteries that supply your heart. It is a noninvasive way to look for narrowing or blockage when your cardiologist wants more information about your coronary arteries. At Signet Heart Group, coronary CT angiography is listed among the services offered by our team, and we see patients for evaluation in Sherman, Durant, Anna, and Dallas.
What Coronary CT Angiography Shows
The scan is designed to show the walls and openings of the coronary arteries. It can help us see whether plaque is present, how much narrowing there may be, and whether further testing or treatment should be discussed. It is not the same as a cardiac catheterization. Your cardiologist will recommend the study that best answers the question at hand.
Who May Be a Candidate
Coronary CT angiography may be considered if you have chest pain or other symptoms that could be related to coronary artery disease, if you have risk factors that warrant a closer look at the arteries, or if a prior test was inconclusive. It is not the right test for everyone. Contrast dye, radiation, a very irregular heart rhythm, kidney disease, or a prior contrast reaction may lead us to choose a different study. We will review your history and decide with you whether this scan is appropriate.
Nikhil Joshi, M.D., FACC, FSCAI, FASNC, lists coronary CT angiography among his specialties. Rajeev Sudhakar, M.D., FACC, lists cardiac CT among his areas of practice.
How to Prepare
Our staff will give you preparation instructions when you schedule the study. Please tell us about asthma, allergies (especially to contrast or iodine), kidney problems, diabetes medications, and whether you could be pregnant. Please bring a current medication list.
Your cardiologist will explain where the scan is done and how it will be scheduled.
What to Expect During the Scan
You will lie on the CT table, and electrocardiogram leads will be placed so the images can be timed to your heartbeat. An intravenous line is used to give contrast dye, which can cause a brief warm sensation. You will be asked to hold your breath for short periods. The imaging itself is usually completed quickly; the full appointment is longer when preparation is included. If your heart rate is too fast for clear pictures, a medication may be given to slow it, when that is safe for you.
After the Scan and Your Results
You can typically resume usual activity after the study, unless you are told otherwise. Drink fluids as directed to help clear the contrast, unless your clinician has limited your fluid intake. We will review the images and discuss whether plaque or narrowing is present and whether medication, lifestyle measures, stress testing, or catheterization should be considered next.
Why Choose Signet Heart Group for Coronary CT Angiography
- Cardiologists who use this test in practice: Coronary CT angiography and cardiac CT are listed specialties for physicians on our team, so the decision to order the scan is made in the context of your full evaluation.
- A plan that does not stop at the pictures: We explain what the study showed and how it fits with your symptoms and other tests, then discuss next steps with you.
- Coordinated care close to home: We see patients in Sherman, Durant, Anna, and Dallas, and we can arrange additional testing or treatment through our practice when it is needed.
- Board-certified cardiologists: Our physicians are board certified, and several have additional fellowship training in cardiovascular imaging or interventional cardiology.
Coronary CT Angiography FAQs
Is coronary CT angiography the same as a regular chest CT?
No. A standard chest CT looks at the lungs and other chest structures. Coronary CT angiography is timed to your heartbeat and, in most cases, uses contrast to show the coronary arteries in detail.
Does the test use radiation or contrast dye?
Yes. The study uses X-rays, and most scans require intravenous contrast. We consider your kidney function, allergy history, and whether you could be pregnant before recommending it. Please tell us if you have had a reaction to contrast.
Will this test replace a heart catheterization?
Not always. Coronary CT angiography can often show whether significant narrowing is present without placing a catheter in the artery. If the pictures suggest an important blockage, if your symptoms are high risk, or if treatment with a stent is likely, a cardiac catheterization may still be recommended.
How should I prepare, and will I need someone to drive me?
Our staff will give you preparation instructions when you schedule the study. Please ask us at that time whether you will need someone to drive you home.
How soon will I get results?
We review the images and discuss them with you once the report is complete. Timing can vary. If a finding needs prompt attention, we will contact you and talk through the next step.
Request an Appointment
If you have questions about coronary CT angiography or want to discuss whether this study is right for you, please call to schedule a visit or request an appointment online. We see patients at 2800 North Highway 75, Sherman, TX 75090; 1727 Chuckwa Drive, Suite 100, Durant, OK 74701; 450 N Standridge Blvd, Suite 104, Anna, TX 75409; and 9440 Poppy Dr, Dallas, TX 75218. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
