Understanding Heart CT Scans with Valley Radiology
Your heart is your most valuable organ. A healthy heart is vital to your overall well-being.
If you or a loved one are living with heart-related symptoms or a diagnosed heart condition, our team is here to help.
At Valley Radiology, we provide comprehensive insights into your heart health through advanced imaging techniques, including CT angiography and a CT scan of the heart.
Our expertise in heart CT scans ensures you receive accurate and valuable information to guide your cardiac well-being.
Continue reading to learn more about a heart CT scan, including what it is, how long it takes, and insight into what heart CT scan results could indicate.
What is a Cardiac CT Scan?
A cardiac CT (Computed Tomography) scan is an advanced medical imaging procedure that employs cutting-edge technology to capture detailed images of the heart and its surrounding structures.
This non-invasive procedure allows radiologists and doctors to assess the heart's anatomy, function, and blood vessels, aiding in diagnosing and managing various cardiovascular-related conditions.
Cardiac CT Scan vs. Angiogram
While cardiac CT scans and angiograms offer valuable insights into heart health, their approach differs.
A cardiac CT scan utilizes X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the heart, providing a comprehensive view.
An angiogram involves injecting contrast dye into the blood vessels and capturing X-ray images to visualize blood flow.
Our experts will recommend the most suitable imaging approach depending on your medical needs and suspected condition.
When is a CT Coronary Angiogram Used?
As its name suggests, CT angiography is commonly used to evaluate coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart.
This procedure is beneficial in detecting and diagnosing coronary artery disease, blockages, and arterial abnormalities.
By visualizing the extent of arterial narrowing or blockage, we can formulate appropriate treatment plans tailored to your condition.
What Do Heart CT Scan Results Show?
A cardiac CT scan provides detailed information about the following:
- Heart anatomy and structure
- Coronary artery health and blood flow
- Blockages or narrowing in the arteries
- Cardiac function and efficiency
These results aid in making informed decisions about your heart health, including implementing timely interventions if necessary.
Can You See Heart Calcium on a CT Scan?
Yes, you can see heart calcium on a CT scan.
Heart calcium, also known as coronary artery calcium or coronary calcium, refers to the buildup of calcium deposits within the coronary arteries. Deposits often indicate atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the narrowing and hardening of the arteries due to plaque accumulation.
A heart CT scan is designed to detect and quantify the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries.
When the cardiac CT scan captures images of the heart and surrounding structures, the resulting images can show the presence of calcium deposits as bright spots or areas of increased density within the coronary arteries.
The calcium scoring scan provides a numerical score called the Agatston score, which helps assess the extent of calcification. This score helps estimate the risk of coronary artery disease and the potential for other cardiovascular events.
How Long Does a Heart CT Scan Take?
The duration of a CT scan varies.
Typically from start to finish, it tasks about 30 to 60 minutes.
It is essential to know that our skilled radiologists will ensure that the procedure is performed efficiently while prioritizing your comfort and safety.
Schedule a Heart CT Scan at Valley Radiology in North Carolina
Your heart health matters to us.
Prioritize your heart health in Angier, NC, with our experienced and compassionate team at Valley Radiology. We are committed to delivering accurate and insightful imaging services contributing to your well-being.
Please note that a doctor’s referral is required for a heart CT scan. If you believe you’re a candidate for one, we encourage you to contact your primary care provider or cardiologist directly to determine next steps. For all other imaging questions, please contact us online today.