Coronary Computed Tomography (CT) Angiography
Coronary Computed Tomography (CT) Angiography is a non-invasive method to detect blockages in the coronary arteries using advanced CT technology, along with IV dyes to obtain 3D pictures of the heart and blood vessels.
This new technology determines blocked arteries which could lead to a future heart event, potentially preventing a heart attack. These high-resolution images enable providers to determine potential blockages in the artery walls.
Why get screened?
This technology allows our providers to take a direct look at the arteries and is a major tool in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is responsible for one in every four deaths, resulting in approximately 610,000 deaths in the United States each year.
A heart attack occurs when an artery in the heart becomes blocked, stopping blood flow to a section of the heart muscle. This happens most often because of artery disease, a slow and steady accumulation of fats and other substances on the inside of artery walls.
Common heart attack symptoms include:
- Uncomfortable pressure
- Fullness
- Squeezing or pain in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back
- Pain that spreads to the neck, jaw, stomach or arms
- Chest discomfort with lightheadedness, sweating, nausea or shortness of breath
Some people experience several of these, others few. Symptoms may be severe or mild. Some people even have "silent" heart attacks with no warning signals at all.
Even if a person has had a negative stress test, they could still be at risk of a heart attack within 6 to 12 months of that stress test. This technology can detect issues in the coronary artery walls that may lead to future health concerns and potentially prevent a heart attack from taking place. The test takes a short amount of time with a low dose of radiation and can be lifesaving.
To determine if the Coronary CT Angiography would be a precautionary test for you, talk with your primary care provider. Appointments can be made by calling the Crossing Rivers Health Clinic at 608.357.2500 or completing the short appointment request form below.
Hear from our patients
Rich Bannen is a man with a generous heart, who has dedicated his life to helping others. He’s a veteran and a caregiver for his family. He's been a first responder since 1973. He's an entrepreneur, a welder, and a teacher. He's an active man who maintains an overall healthy diet. Today, thanks to a Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA), Rich is a survivor.