State-of-the-art imaging, now available throughout the MedicalES network
The MedicalES Network announces the addition of coronary CT angiography (cardiac computed tomography) to the list of high-performance medical services offered to its patients. This is an indispensable tool for assessing cardiac health and accurately diagnosing various cardiovascular conditions, with the aim of establishing the most effective treatment plans.
MedicalES’s highly specialized team in cardiac imaging works with state-of-the-art equipment that captures and processes detailed, extremely clear images of the body’s internal structures. In addition, our specialists have access to innovative software that enables image processing and detailed interpretation, with the goal of providing rapid and accurate diagnoses to all MedicalES patients.
About Coronary CT Angiography (Cardiac Computed Tomography)
Coronary CT angiography combines the technology used in cardiac CT scans with coronary angiography. This complex imaging test provides accurate results by visualizing the vessel walls and performing a detailed assessment of atherosclerotic plaques, which typically cause serious cardiovascular diseases.
- This advanced, non-invasive imaging test uses the lowest possible dose of ionizing radiation to produce detailed images of the structures of the heart and blood vessels.
- This offers the significant benefit of capturing three-dimensional images of the heart, which clearly highlight the coronary arteries and areas at high risk for stenosis.
- In addition, this method allows for the precise assessment of the extent of the identified coronary stenoses.
Coronary CT angiography is performed quickly, in about 5–10 minutes, thanks to the high-speed scanning capabilities of the state-of-the-art equipment used to perform the procedure at MedicalES clinics.
When Is a Coronary CT Angiogram Recommended?
This state-of-the-art imaging test is extremely useful for the rapid and highly accurate diagnosis of a wide range of cardiovascular conditions:
- It is recommended for patients with asymptomatic heart disease and for those in whom changes have been identified on a standard ECG, for a thorough assessment of their heart health.
- It is an effective tool for a detailed assessment of heart health, recommended for patients experiencing atypical chest pain, those with known cardiovascular conditions, and individuals in high-risk groups for cardiovascular disease, such as smokers.
- It enables the accurate diagnosis of various heart muscle disorders (cardiomyopathy), valvular heart disease, various types of cardiac tumors, and pericardial disease.
- It enables the identification and assessment of atherosclerotic plaques and the degree of coronary stenosis.
- It allows for the assessment of the coronary calcium score and the evaluation of the function of various stents or bypass grafts implanted in the heart.
- In addition, it allows for the diagnosis of any heart development abnormalities in both children and adults.
- It is extremely effective in monitoring severe heart defects, in cases where angioplasty or other surgical procedures may be necessary.
Therefore, coronary CT angiography (cardiac computed tomography) is an effective method for monitoring patients both during preoperative procedures and for dynamic assessment in the postoperative period, especially in cases involving bypass surgery or angioplasty.
Preparing for a Coronary CT Angiogram
- First, the necessary medical history is taken, which includes the patient’s medical history and any information regarding potential allergies or contraindications related to the use of the contrast agent.
- It is recommended to fast for 4–6 hours before undergoing the imaging test.
- It is recommended that you avoid consuming caffeinated beverages before undergoing a cardiac examination.
- The specialist may recommend a serum creatinine test be performed in advance to assess kidney health, in order to avoid any risks associated with the use of an iodine-containing contrast agent administered intravenously during a coronary CT angiography.
An important point to note here is that there are no contraindications regarding patients taking their regular medication prior to undergoing this state-of-the-art cardiac imaging test.
How the Coronary CT Angiography Exam Is Performed
In the first stage of coronary CT angiography (cardiac computed tomography), the calcium score (Agatson) is determined in order to assess the density of arterial plaques in the blood vessels. This allows for an assessment of the risk of developing conditions such as stenosis, heart attack, or thrombosis.
Here is what the scores from this stage indicate:
- Score of 0 = minimal risk of experiencing coronary events.
- A score of 1–10 indicates possible minimal calcification and a low risk of developing coronary artery disease.
- A score of 11–100 indicates a moderate risk of heart attack.
- A score of 101–400 indicates possible moderate calcification, typically associated with cardiovascular conditions that carry a risk of stenosis.
- A score exceeding 400 = an indicator of possible significant calcification, with an increased risk of coronary events.
In the next step, the contrast agent is injected intravenously through an IV catheter in order to quickly obtain extremely clear and precise images of the heart, blood vessels, and blood flow.
The images collected during this high-performance examination allow for a detailed assessment of the anatomy of the coronary artery, the plaque, the degree of vessel narrowing, and key aspects related to heart function.
Starting this month, you can confidently rely on the benefits of this state-of-the-art imaging modality at MedicalES clinics! Our team of physicians who are highlyspecialists in cardiac imaging is ready to provide you with all the support you need to benefit from a professional evaluation, an accurate diagnosis, and the enhanced effectiveness of treatment plans prescribed as a result of state-of-the-art imaging assessments.
