Cardiac CT

A Cardiac CT, also known as a coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), is a medical imaging technique that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce detailed images of the heart and its blood vessels. It is a non-invasive way to evaluate the coronary arteries and can help diagnose coronary artery disease (CAD), which is the most common type of heart disease.

The images provide detailed information about the structure and function of the heart. A cardiac CT can detect the presence and severity of blockages in the coronary arteries, as well as identify any calcifications or plaques that may be present. This information can be used to determine the appropriate treatment for the patient, such as medication, lifestyle changes or invasive procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery.

Conditions that a cardiac CT checks for:

• Coronary artery disease: a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrow or blocked due to the buildup of plaque.
• Heart valve problems: a condition where the valves that regulate blood flow in and out of the heart are not functioning properly.
• Congenital heart defects: structural abnormalities in the heart that are present at birth.
• Aortic aneurysm: a bulge in the aorta (the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body) that can be life-threatening if it ruptures.
• Pericardial disease: inflammation or other problems affecting the sac that surrounds the heart.
• Pulmonary embolism: a blockage in one of the arteries in the lungs that can be caused by a blood clot.

Dr. Peden at Pinnacle Cardiovascular Associates offers cardiac CTs to patients as a non-invasive imaging test to evaluate the health of their heart and blood vessels. To learn more about cardiac CTs please reach out to Pinnacle Cardiovascular Associates in Opelika, Alabama, at 334-528-5400.