A computerized tomography (CT) coronary angiogram is an imaging test that looks at the arteries that supply your heart with blood. Unlike traditional coronary angiograms, a CT angiogram is a non-invasive test and doesn’t use a catheter threaded through your blood vessels to your heart.
Instead, a CT coronary angiogram relies on a powerful X-ray machine to produce images of your heart and its blood vessels. CT angiograms are noninvasive and don’t require any recovery time. Coronary CT angiograms are increasingly an option for people with a variety of heart conditions.
Both CT and traditional coronary angiograms expose you to radiation. If you have known coronary artery disease, a traditional coronary angiogram may be a better option, since you can also receive treatment for your coronary artery disease during that procedure.
Current Australian medicare guidelines involve a cardiologist or physician assessment of your symptoms to assess if CT coronary angiogram is an appropriate test for you.
A test that’s similar to CT angiogram is a coronary calcium scan. This test uses a special type of computerized tomography to check for calcium in your coronary arteries, which can be a risk factor for coronary artery disease. No dye is injected during a coronary calcium scan.
Currently both these tests are offered off site, but our cardiologist can assess the appropriate test suitable for you.