A CT heart scan is a non-invasive imaging test that creates detailed pictures of the heart and its surrounding blood vessels. This procedure helps healthcare professionals assess the condition of the heart’s arteries and detect potential issues. It offers a way to examine heart health by providing clear images without the need for surgical intervention. This advanced imaging technique plays a role in understanding and managing various heart-related concerns.
How a CT Heart Scan Works
A CT heart scan utilizes X-rays to generate cross-sectional images of the heart and its adjacent structures. The scanner rotates around the patient, collecting multiple images from different angles that a computer then reconstructs into comprehensive 3D views.
Two primary types of CT heart scans are used. The first is a Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score, which measures calcium deposits in the walls of the coronary arteries. The presence of calcium indicates plaque buildup, a marker for coronary artery disease. A higher calcium score suggests more plaque and potentially a higher risk of future heart events.
The second type is a Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA), which involves injecting a contrast dye into a vein. This dye travels through the bloodstream, making the coronary arteries visible on the CT images. CCTA allows doctors to visualize blood flow through these arteries and identify any narrowings or blockages caused by plaque buildup.
When a CT Heart Scan is Recommended
Doctors often recommend a CT heart scan to evaluate chest pain or other symptoms like shortness of breath or palpitations. The scan helps determine if these symptoms are related to coronary artery disease or other cardiac conditions.
For individuals with risk factors for heart disease, a CT heart scan can assess the extent of plaque buildup. These risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a family history of early heart disease.
A CT heart scan may also monitor known heart conditions or evaluate treatment effectiveness. It assists with pre-procedural planning for certain cardiac interventions, providing surgeons with a detailed map of the heart’s anatomy.
The scan can also help distinguish between cardiac and non-cardiac causes of symptoms. For instance, if chest pain is suspected to be from a non-heart-related issue like muscle strain or acid reflux, the CT heart scan can help rule out coronary artery disease.
What to Expect During a Heart CT Scan
Before a heart CT scan, you will receive instructions. These often include avoiding caffeine for 12 to 24 hours and fasting for a few hours prior to the scan. Discuss any current medications with your doctor, as some might need temporary adjustment.
Upon arrival, you will change into a hospital gown. If the scan requires contrast dye, a healthcare professional will insert an intravenous (IV) line for administration. Inform staff of any allergies, especially to contrast dye, or kidney issues, as these can affect contrast use.
During the scan, you will lie on a movable table that slides into the CT scanner. A technologist will monitor you from an adjacent room and provide instructions through an intercom, including holding your breath for short periods. This helps ensure clear images and prevent blurring. The entire scanning process is quick, taking about 10 to 15 minutes.
After the scan, if contrast dye was used, drink plenty of fluids. You can resume your normal activities. The medical team will ensure you are feeling well before you leave.
Interpreting Your Heart CT Scan Results
After your heart CT scan, a radiologist will analyze the images. They will examine pictures of your heart and coronary arteries. This analysis generates a report outlining their findings.
Common findings include a calcium score, quantifying calcified plaque in your arteries, or CCTA observations identifying blockages or narrowed arteries. A higher calcium score or significant blockages indicate the presence and extent of coronary artery disease. These results provide information about your heart health.
The radiologist’s report will be sent to your referring physician. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you. They will outline next steps based on the scan’s outcome.
These next steps could range from recommending lifestyle changes to prescribing medications. Further diagnostic tests or medical procedures might be suggested depending on the severity of the findings. The goal is to manage your heart health effectively.