Cardiac CT (Computed Tomography) is non-invasive imaging of the heart and coronary arteries. It has an important place in screening and evaluating coronary artery disease.
What is Cardiac CT?#
Cardiac CT uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the heart and coronary arteries. When used with contrast material, the internal structure of coronary arteries can be visualized.
Types of Cardiac CT:
- Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA)
- Calcium Scoring
- Cardiac CT (structural evaluation)
Coronary CT Angiography Indications#
Low-Intermediate Risk Patients#
- Atypical chest pain
- Inconclusive stress test
- Low-intermediate coronary risk
- Emergency department chest pain evaluation
Anatomical Evaluation#
- Coronary artery anomalies
- Bypass graft evaluation
- Stent patency check
- Pulmonary vein anatomy
Calcium Scoring#
- Cardiovascular risk assessment
- Asymptomatic high-risk individuals
- Treatment decision support
Pre-Cardiac CT Preparation#
General Preparation#
- 4 hours fasting
- Caffeine restriction (24 hours)
- Heart rate control
Medication Preparation#
- Beta blocker (to lower heart rate)
- Nitroglycerin (coronary dilation)
- Contrast allergy prevention (if needed)
How is Cardiac CT Performed?#
Procedure Steps#
- ECG connection: Heart rhythm synchronization
- IV access: For contrast injection
- Heart rate control: Beta blocker if needed
- Nitroglycerin: Coronary dilation
- Contrast injection: Automatic injector
- Imaging: With breath hold
- Image processing: 3D reconstruction
Procedure Duration#
Total duration: 15-30 minutes
Cardiac CT Results#
Calcium Score#
| Score | Risk Category |
|---|---|
| 0 | Very low risk |
| 1-100 | Low risk |
| 101-400 | Intermediate risk |
| >400 | High risk |
Coronary Stenosis Evaluation#
- Normal: No stenosis
- Minimal: <25%
- Mild: 25-49%
- Moderate: 50-69%
- Severe: 70-99%
- Occluded: 100%
Cardiac CT Advantages and Limitations#
Advantages#
- Non-invasive
- Fast results
- High negative predictive value
- Anatomical detail
Limitations#
- Radiation exposure
- Contrast material requirement
- Image quality decreases at high heart rate
- Evaluation difficulty in severe calcification
Frequently Asked Questions#
Is cardiac CT painful?
How long does cardiac CT take?
Does cardiac CT contain radiation?
Can cardiac CT replace angiography?
When do cardiac CT results come out?
Appointment and Contact#
If you would like to schedule an appointment for cardiac CT:
📍 Avrasya Hospital - Beştelsiz Mah. 101. Sokak No:107, Zeytinburnu, Istanbul
📞 Phone: +90 212 665 50 50 (Ext: 4012)
This content has been prepared by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Habib Çil for general informational purposes. Please consult a cardiology specialist for definitive diagnosis and treatment.
Related Diagnostic Tests#
Other diagnostic tests related to cardiac CT:
- Cardiac Angiography - Coronary artery imaging
- Echocardiography - Heart ultrasound
- Myocardial Perfusion - Myocardial perfusion scintigraphy
- Exercise Stress Test - Exercise stress test
- Coronary Artery Disease - About coronary artery disease