38 Irrawaddy Road #08-51, Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, Singapore 329563
38 Irrawaddy Road #08-51, Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, Singapore 329563
A computerised tomography coronary angiogram (CTCA) is a diagnostic imaging technique that provides clear, detailed pictures of the arteries supplying blood to the heart. It uses a specialised CT scanner and contrast dye to enhance the visibility of the arteries, allowing doctors to assess the presence of blockages, narrowing, or other abnormalities.
Traditionally, coronary angiography involves the insertion of a catheter into the arteries, making it a more invasive procedure that can carry risks such as bleeding or infection. In contrast, CT coronary angiograms are minimally invasive, offering a safer alternative to assess the coronary arteries.
This procedure is typically used in:
Early-stage coronary artery disease often goes undetected by standard electrocardiograms (ECGs) or non-invasive ECG stress tests in Singapore. This is where CT coronary angiograms help in identifying heart artery blockages at their earliest stages, enabling early intervention to slow the progression of the disease and prevent severe blockages or heart attacks.
CT coronary angiograms are used to measure the extent of narrowing in the coronary arteries caused by fatty and calcified deposits. This evaluation helps the doctor determine the most appropriate treatment approach, which may include lifestyle changes, medication, or medical procedures such as stenting or bypass surgery.
Over time, the risk of blockages developing in coronary stents or bypass grafts can increase, especially if risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol are not well managed. A CT coronary angiogram can help evaluate your condition and may reduce the need for more invasive procedures, such as cardiac catheterisation.
For patients with complex and difficult-to-treat coronary artery blockages, a CT coronary angiogram can help enhance the success of procedures like stenting. By providing clear, detailed images of the coronary arteries, it allows doctors to better assess the location, severity, and nature of the blockages. This information is crucial for planning interventions with greater precision, improving the likelihood of successful outcomes.
In addition to diagnosing CAD, CT coronary angiograms are also effective in detecting coronary artery anomalies, including congenital defects or unusual artery origins. Early identification of these conditions is vital for developing appropriate treatment plans and reducing the risk of sudden cardiac arrest or other serious heart issues.
CT Coronary Angiogram, short for Computed Tomography Coronary Angiography, is a diagnostic procedure utilised to visualise blood vessels in various parts of the body. During the procedure, the patient lies down on the CT scan bed and a small amount of contrast dye is injected through an IV cannula in the hand. The machine captures a series of cross-sectional images within a few seconds. These images are then processed by a computer to create detailed, three-dimensional pictures of the blood vessels. It is sometimes performed as part of a comprehensive heart screening to assess for abnormalities or blockages in the vascular system.
Before the CT coronary angiogram, patients will be asked to fast for a few hours. They may also be instructed to stop certain medications that could interfere with the test. An intravenous (IV) line is inserted to administer the contrast dye during the scan.
The patient will lie on a table that moves through the CT scanner. Electrodes will be attached to monitor the heart’s rhythm. The contrast dye will be injected through the IV line, and the scanner will take high-resolution images of the heart and blood vessels. This process usually takes a few minutes.
After the procedure, patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications. Most individuals can resume normal activities soon after the test, as the CTCA is non-invasive with a minimal recovery time.
Unlike traditional coronary angiography, CTCA does not require catheter insertion, making it a non-invasive option for evaluating the coronary arteries.
CTCA provides clear and detailed images of the coronary arteries, helping doctors accurately diagnose coronary artery disease (CAD) and other heart conditions.
Since the procedure does not involve surgery or catheterisation, recovery time is minimal and you can resume normal activities soon after the scan.
CTCA offers a full view of the coronary arteries, providing more comprehensive information about the health of the heart’s blood vessels.
CTCAs recommended for individuals who are at risk for coronary artery disease (CAD) or those who are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or unexplained fatigue. It is also particularly useful for:
Our clinic focuses on interventional cardiology and cardiovascular CT imaging, providing accurate assessments and personalised treatment plans. Dr Leslie Tay takes a patient-centred approach, focusing on helping each individual understand their condition and available options. Whether you require a CT coronary angiogram or other diagnostic tests, we ensure you receive clear, practical guidance to make informed decisions about your heart health.
The procedure itself is generally not painful. You may experience some discomfort from the intravenous (IV) line used to inject the contrast dye, but the procedure is non-invasive and quick.
A CTCA typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes to complete. This includes the time needed for preparation of the scan and the injection of the contrast dye.
Recovery time is minimal. Most patients can resume normal activities soon after the procedure, though you may be monitored for a short time following the test to ensure there are no immediate complications.
Coverage for a CTCA depends on your insurance provider and policy. It’s advisable to contact your insurance company to confirm if the procedure is covered under your plan.
A CTCA may not be appropriate for everyone, particularly those with certain allergies to contrast dye or kidney issues. Consult your doctor to determine if this procedure is the right choice for your condition.