What is it?
CCTA allows doctors and patients to see whether or not the coronary arteries are clogged with plaque. Doctors will inject an iodine-rich contrasting liquid into the body to be read by the CT scan.
How Should I prepare?
When a patient needs a Coronary Computerized Tomography Angiography the doctor will usually tell them not to eat four hours before the test. They will also remind the patient not to have any caffeinated drinks before the test because it can change the results.
What Happens During the Process?
A CTA is a noninvasive way for doctors to see any blockage in the coronary arteries. Patients will receive an IV to place dye into the body. X-rays will pass throughout the patient’s body. The scanner will pick up the x-rays that pass through the body and can make 3D images that doctors can view from their computer screen. The contrasting dye in the body makes it possible for the plaque and calcium deposits in the arteries to show up in the CTA.
Risks:
* Allergic reaction to the dye
* Radiation can harm an unborn child
* Exposure to a small amount of radiation.
* Chance of developing cancer
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