Coronary CT Angiogram |  | 
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Angiography is a minimally invasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat a number of medical conditions. In computed tomography angiography (CTA), you will have a computed tomography (CT) scan using a contrast material that will produce multiple detailed images. CT imaging uses special X-ray equipment to produce the images and a computer to join them together in multidimensional views.
Before the test
- Be sure to mention the medications you take and ask if it is okay to take them before the test
- If instructed, stop eating and drinking 8 hours before your CT
- If instructed, drink contrast (a liquid that improves the image) 8 hours before your CT
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your exam. You may be given a gown to wear during the procedure
- Remove metal objects including jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures and hairpins. You may also be asked to remove hearing aids and removable dental work
- Women should always inform their physician and the technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
- The test may take 10 minutes to 2 hours, depending on whether contrast is used and the part of the body being scanned
- Arrive on time to check in
During the test
- You may be given contrast through an intravenous (IV) line or by injection
- You will lie on a table. The table slides into the CT scanner
- The technologist will ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds during your scan
After the test
- After a CT exam, you can return to your normal activities
- You can go back to your normal diet and activities right away. Any contrast will pass naturally through your body within a day
- Before leaving, you may need to wait briefly while your images are being reviewed
- Your doctor will discuss the test results with you during a follow-up appointment or over the phone
Benefits vs. Risks of CTA
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Benefits |
Risks |
- May eliminate the need for surgery. If surgery remains necessary, it can be performed more accurately
- Ability to detect narrowing of blood vessels in time for corrective therapy to be done
- More precise anatomical detail of blood vessels than magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- A less invasive and more patient-friendly procedure than catheter angiography
- No radiation remains in a patient's body after a CT examination
- Usually have no side effects from X-rays in CT scans
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- Slight chance of cancer from excessive exposure to radiation
- Special medication may be required if you have a history of allergy to X-ray contrast material to lessen the risk of allergic reaction
- Skin damage or damage to blood vessels and nerves, though unlikely, can result if a large amount of X-ray contrast material leaks out from the vessel being injected and spreads under the skin where the IV is placed
- Risks associated with exposure to radiation for pregnant women
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Coronary Artery Angiography screenings are offered Mondays through Fridays at Mercy General Hospital in Sacramento.
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