Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common causes of death worldwide. Therefore, protecting heart and vascular health and making an early diagnosis is of great importance. Coronary CT angiography is an advanced technology method that examines the structure of the heart vessels quickly and in detail.
With coronary CT angiography, it is possible to see whether the vessels are narrowed, whether there is plaque formation or blockage. During the procedure, contrast material is given into the vein and high-resolution images are obtained. Compared to conventional angiography, it is less invasive and more comfortable for the patient.
It is particularly useful in diagnosing people with chest pain, shortness of breath, or at risk of heart attack. In addition, it can also be used for screening purposes in individuals over the age of 40 who are at risk for cardiovascular disease.
When arteriosclerosis is detected at an early stage, lifestyle changes and medication can prevent progression. This helps prevent serious heart attacks.
As a result, coronary CT angiography is a powerful diagnostic tool for protecting cardiovascular health.
Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common causes of death today, both in Turkey and around the world. Unhealthy eating habits, smoking, stress, obesity, and genetic factors trigger these diseases. Heart attacks often develop suddenly and can be fatal if precautions are not taken. Therefore, it is vital to know the condition of the coronary arteries and to make an early diagnosis.
Coronary CT angiography is a modern diagnostic method that can image the heart vessels in detail. In this article, what coronary CT angiography is, how it is performed, its advantages, risks, and who it is recommended for will be explained in detail.
What Is Coronary CT Angiography?
Coronary CT angiography is a method that allows imaging of the coronary arteries that supply the heart using a computed tomography device. During the procedure, contrast material is injected into the vein to examine the inner structure of the vessels in detail.
Unlike conventional angiography, no catheter is inserted into the vessels. Therefore, it is a much less invasive method. Today, it is frequently preferred for the early diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases.
How Is It Performed?
- Preparation Phase: The patient is asked to come fasting. In some cases, medication may be given to control heart rate.
- Contrast Material Application: An intravenous line is placed, and contrast material is administered. This allows the vessels to appear more clearly.
- Imaging: The patient is placed into the CT scanner. The coronary arteries are imaged in detail within seconds.
- Result: The obtained images are evaluated by a radiology specialist.
The entire procedure takes about 15–20 minutes. Patients can usually return to their normal daily activities on the same day.
When Is It Used?
- In individuals with chest pain and at risk of heart attack
- In people with high cardiovascular disease risk (hypertension, diabetes, smoking)
- In those with a family history of early heart attack
- When narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries is suspected
- For follow-up in patients previously diagnosed with heart disease
Advantages of Coronary CT Angiography
- Provides early diagnosis: Atherosclerosis or plaque formation can be detected before symptoms appear.
- Non-invasive: Unlike conventional angiography, no catheter is inserted into the vessel.
- Quick results: The procedure is completed within minutes.
- High patient comfort: It is painless and fast.
- Reduces the risk of heart attack: Enables early preventive measures.
Who Is It Recommended For?
Coronary CT angiography is ideal especially for individuals in the moderate-risk group. In other words, it provides great benefit for people who have not yet been diagnosed with serious heart disease but carry risk factors.
- Men over 40 and women over 50
- Smokers
- Individuals with obesity, diabetes, and hypertension
- Those with a family history of heart disease
Are There Any Risks?
As with any medical procedure, coronary CT angiography also carries some risks.
- Radiation: It involves a low dose of radiation. However, with modern devices, this level is kept at a minimum.
- Contrast material: It should be used with caution in people with kidney disease. Rarely, allergic reactions may occur.
Overall, the benefits far outweigh the potential risks.
Difference Between Coronary CT Angiography and Conventional Angiography
- Conventional angiography: A catheter is inserted into the vessel, making it more invasive. Treatment can also be performed simultaneously.
- Coronary CT angiography: No catheter is used, and it is purely diagnostic. It is completed in a shorter time and is more comfortable.
Therefore, coronary CT angiography is preferred as the first step in screening and early diagnosis. However, if severe narrowing is detected, conventional angiography may be required for treatment.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Cardiovascular diseases often progress silently. The first symptom may sometimes be a heart attack. However, thanks to coronary CT angiography, arteriosclerosis and blockages can be detected at an early stage. In this way, lifestyle changes, medication, or surgical intervention when necessary can prevent serious complications.
Coronary CT angiography is an effective method for early diagnosis in cardiovascular health. Its non-invasive nature, rapid results, and patient comfort make it stand out. It is especially a life-saving test for individuals at risk of heart attack.
Heart health is one of the cornerstones of quality of life. With regular check-ups and the right imaging methods, cardiovascular diseases can be detected at an early stage. It should not be forgotten that early diagnosis saves lives.
