A cardiac CT coronary angiogram, also known as multi-slice CT coronary angiography, is a non-invasive imaging procedure that detects problems in the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle. It is highly accurate and chiefly used to diagnose coronary artery disease, the narrowing of the arteries due to fatty or calcium deposits.
01Why It’s Done
Dr Lee may recommend this for patients with:
Investigating chest pain or suspected coronary artery disease
Assessing heart-disease risk non-invasively
Accurately guide the management of lipid disorders based on individual finding
02How It Works
Electrodes are placed on the chest to monitor the heart rate.
A contrast dye is given through an intravenous drip in the arm.
A CT scanner captures detailed cross-sectional images of the heart and its arteries.
The images are analysed by the cardiologist.
CT scan showing narrowing in RCA
03Duration, Recovery & What To Expect
The entire process takes around 60 minutes although the scanning takes only a few minutes. This is a non-invasive scan with a quick recovery. Medication may be given to slow the heart beats. You can usually resume normal activities the same day.
04Performed at radiology centres in Orchard area and reviewed by Dr Lee Chee Wan
No. Unlike a conventional coronary angiogram, no catheter is inserted into heart. An intravenous dye is injected into a vein in the arm.
How accurate is CT coronary angiogram?
CT coronary angiogram has around 95% accuracy. Heavy coronary calcium deposit, existing stent, and fast/abnormal heart rhythm may affect its interpretation.
Ready to take the next step?
Book a consultation with Dr Lee Chee Wan to discuss this procedure and your heart health.
