CCTA

Coronary computed tomography angiography(CCTA) combines a CT scan and an iodine-based contrast medium to examine the arteries that supply blood to the heart. The images that are generated during the scan can be constructed to create a three-dimensional image which may be viewed on a monitor, or printed on film.

CCTA is a non-invasive method to evaluate the blood vessels of the heart. The patient is connected to a cardiac monitor which shows the heart’s electrical activity and an intravenous line is placed into an arm vein. During this scan, x-rays pass through the body and are picked up by special detectors in the scanner. A high number of detectors results in clear, conclusive images. For that reason, CCTA’s are often referred to as multi-detector, or multi-slice, CT scanning. When the contrast medium is introduced to the bloodstream during the procedure, it allows for clear definition of the blood vessels that are under examination by making them appear bright white. A beta blocker may also be administered to the patient through the same IV line, or given orally to help slow down the heart rate, to aid in improving image quality.

Nitroglycerin may also be administered as a tablet, or a spray underneath the patient’s tongue, to dilate and improve visualisation of the coronary arteries.

CT扫描仪通常是一个大盒子状的机器，中间有一条隧道。x射线管和探测器在一个环中彼此相对，被称为门架，它们围绕着病人旋转。CCTA的工作原理与标准CT扫描相同，唯一的区别是速度。扫描后的图像将显示在电脑屏幕上，放射科医生将使用这些图像创建三维图像和各种平面的图像，以全面评估心脏和冠状动脉。

CCTA is indicated for patients with suspected abnormal anatomy of the coronary arteries, i.e. plaques or atherosclerosis.

Unlike conventional x-rays, CT scanning provides very detailed images of many types of tissue. The examination is fast and simple, as well as non-invasive.

Learn more aboutcomputerized tomography angiography,coronary CTA, andcoronary CT angiography.