CT Angiogram

A CT angiogram is an imaging procedure that combines computed tomography (CT) scanning with an intravenous contrast dye to produce detailed pictures of blood vessels throughout the body.

A conventional angiogram requires a catheter to be inserted into an artery, whereas a CT angiogram test only requires an IV line in the arm. This makes it a less invasive option for evaluating blood circulation and detecting vascular conditions.

Depending on the symptoms being investigated, your doctor may recommend a CT angiogram of the:

• Heart (CT coronary angiogram)
• Brain
• Neck
• Chest
• Abdomen
• Kidneys
• Legs or arms

The CT angiogram procedure is usually completed within 30 to 60 minutes, although the actual scan takes only a few minutes.

Before the scan

• You may be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove jewellery or metal objects.
• An IV line is inserted into a vein in your arm for the contrast dye.
• For a CT coronary angiogram procedure, medications may be given to slow your heart rate if needed, helping obtain clearer images.

During the scan

• You will be asked to lie comfortably on a motorised CT table.
• The contrast dye is injected through the IV, which may cause a brief warm sensation or a metallic taste in the mouth.
• The table moves through the CT scanner while you are asked to remain still and hold your breath for a few seconds at a time.
• The scanner captures multiple images from different angles, which are reconstructed into detailed 3D images of your blood vessels.

The procedure is painless. Most people can return home shortly afterwards.

Your doctor may advise a CT angiogram if you have symptoms or risk factors suggesting problems with your blood vessels.

Some of the common reasons include:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath during activity
• Dizziness or fainting
• Abnormal ECG, stress test or echocardiogram results
• Suspected coronary artery disease
• Family history of heart disease
• High blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol
• Evaluation after a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
• Suspected aneurysm or blood vessel abnormalities
• Planning treatment before certain surgeries

A CT angiography heart scan is particularly useful in people with a low to intermediate likelihood of coronary artery disease. It helps in determining whether narrowed arteries are causing symptoms.

The CT angiogram scan helps doctors identify a wide range of conditions affecting blood vessels.

It can detect:

• Narrowing or blockage of arteries
• Coronary artery disease
• Calcium deposits within coronary arteries
• Aneurysms (bulging blood vessels)
• Blood clots
• Congenital abnormalities of blood vessels
• Peripheral artery disease
• Carotid artery narrowing
• Pulmonary embolism in selected cases
• Problems with blood flow to organs such as the kidneys

A CT coronary angiogram can also help figure out whether chest pain is related to blocked coronary arteries or another cause.

Your doctor will provide preparation instructions based on the area being examined and your medical history.

General preparation tips you should follow:

• Avoid eating for hours before the scan if advised.
• Drink plenty of water unless instructed otherwise.
• Inform your doctor about any allergies.
• Tell your healthcare team if you have kidney disease, asthma or thyroid disorders.
• Share a list of all medicines you take.
• Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
• Avoid caffeine for 12 to 24 hours before the scan.
• Avoid smoking on the day of the test.
• Wear comfortable clothing.
• Continue or temporarily stop certain medications only as directed by your doctor.

Following these instructions helps improve image quality received from the scan and reduces the risk of complications.

A radiologist analyses the images and prepares a detailed report for your referring doctor. CT angiography shows how narrow an artery looks, not always whether blood flow is actually restricted.

Reports generally use the CAD-RADS scale to grade the worst narrowing found:

• 0 to 2 (0% – 49%) – Normal to mild: It is low risk, likely not causing symptoms.
• 3 (50 – 69%) – Moderate: It may need a followup stress test.
• 4 to 5 (70 – 100%) – Severe: It needs further evaluation (invasive angiography) and possible treatment.

The report may also note your:

• Calcium score that shows the amount of hardened plaque.
• Plaque type is either calcified, which is more stable, or soft, which carries higher risk.
• The report also notes which arteries are affected.

At the CK Birla Hospital, CT angiography is performed using advanced imaging technology designed to produce detailed images while prioritising patient comfort and safety.

We offer:

• Experienced radiologists and cardiac specialists
• Advanced CT imaging systems for high-quality vascular assessment
• Coordinated care between radiology and cardiology teams
• Timely reporting for faster diagnosis and treatment planning
• Personalised guidance before and after the scan

Whether you require a CT angiogram for suspected heart disease or for another vascular condition, our multidisciplinary team ensures your care is personalised to your clinical needs. Book a consultation today!