CT Coronary Angiogram (CTCA)

A coronary angiogram is an imaging test that uses X-rays and contrast dye to visualise blood flow in the coronary arteries, while cardiac catheterisation is the broader procedure in which a catheter is inserted into the heart for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, such as angioplasty or stent placement. In practice, a coronary angiogram is one of the diagnostic tests performed during cardiac catheterisation.

An angiogram is a diagnostic test that uses contrast dye and imaging to detect blockages or narrowing in blood vessels, while angioplasty is a treatment procedure that uses a balloon or stent to widen narrowed arteries. Angiograms may be performed first to confirm blockages, and angioplasty may follow if intervention is needed.

A CT coronary angiogram is not generally considered painful, as it is non-invasive and involves lying still in a CT scanner while images are taken. Patients may feel mild discomfort from the insertion of an IV line for contrast dye or a warm sensation when the dye enters the bloodstream. These effects are usually brief and well tolerated. It is advisable to consult a doctor if you have concerns about the procedure or possible side effects.

Coronary angiogram in Chinese is 冠状动脉造影 (guānzhuàng dòngmài zàoyǐng), which literally means "coronary artery imaging." It describes the diagnostic procedure that evaluates narrowing or blockages in the coronary arteries.

A doctor may order a CT coronary angiogram to check for narrowed or blocked coronary arteries in patients with chest pain, shortness of breath, or inconclusive findings from other cardiac tests such as an ECG, echocardiogram, or treadmill stress test. It may also be used to assess risk in patients with multiple risk factors for heart disease or as a non-invasive alternative to catheter angiography.

Angiogram results do not have a fixed validity period because artery narrowing or blockages can progress over time. The findings reflect the condition of the coronary arteries at the time of the test, but changes may occur months or years later depending on risk factors and lifestyle. Doctors may recommend repeat testing if new symptoms develop or if risk factors worsen.

At healthscreening.sg, a CT coronary angiogram costs from $1,329.80 NETT inclusive of GST, excluding consultation fees. The final amount may vary depending on whether additional cardiac tests are recommended. Consult us directly for an accurate estimate tailored to your medical needs or to book an appointment.

If an angiogram shows a blockage, your doctor or cardiologist will assess its severity and location to decide on the next steps. Minor blockages may be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, while significant ones could require procedures such as angioplasty with stent placement or, in some cases, bypass surgery. The appropriate treatment depends on overall heart health, symptoms, and risk factors.

A coronary angiogram can vary in duration depending on whether it is performed as a CT coronary angiogram (CTCA) or an invasive catheter angiogram. A CTCA scan itself takes only a few seconds, with the entire clinic visit usually lasting 30 to 60 minutes including preparation. An invasive angiogram typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, with total hospital time longer due to preparation, monitoring, and potential interventions such as angioplasty. It is advisable to check with your healthcare provider for a more accurate estimate.

Heart blockages can sometimes be evaluated using non-invasive tests such as a CT coronary angiogram, echocardiogram, treadmill stress test, or CT calcium scoring. These methods provide useful information on heart function and artery health without catheter insertion. However, while these tests are valuable for screening and diagnosis, an invasive coronary angiogram, or catheter angiography, remains the gold standard for detailed assessment. Consulting a cardiologist can help determine the most appropriate test based on your symptoms and risk profile.

A CT angiogram is a non-invasive test using CT imaging and contrast dye to create 3D images of the coronary arteries, while a regular angiogram, or catheter angiography, involves inserting a catheter directly into the arteries to inject dye and take X-ray images. CT angiograms are useful for diagnosis and risk assessment, whereas catheter angiography may allow for treatment, such as angioplasty, during the same procedure.

Three common risks of an angiogram, which refers to the invasive catheter-based procedure and not a CT coronary angiogram (CTCA), include bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site, allergic reactions to contrast dye, and kidney complications in patients with pre-existing kidney issues. Less common risks include irregular heart rhythms or blood vessel damage. While serious complications are rare, your doctor will discuss whether the potential risks outweigh the benefits in your case.

For an invasive catheter-based procedure and not a CT coronary angiogram (CTCA), arteries generally begin healing within a few days. Most patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity for about a week. Recovery may vary depending on whether access was through the wrist or groin, with groin entry sometimes requiring a longer healing period. It is advisable to check with your doctor or cardiologist for an estimate tailored to your condition.

The scan commonly used to detect blocked arteries is a CT Coronary Angiogram (CTCA), which produces detailed images of the coronary arteries to identify narrowing, blockages, or atherosclerosis. Unlike an invasive angiogram, CTCA is non-invasive and uses contrast dye with a CT scanner. In some cases, other imaging tests such as stress echocardiograms or CT calcium scoring may be recommended.

The abbreviation CTCA stands for CT Coronary Angiogram, a non-invasive imaging test that uses computed tomography (CT) and contrast dye to assess the coronary arteries. The scan helps detect narrowing, plaque, or blockages that may increase the risk of chest pain, coronary artery disease, or heart attack. CTCA may be advised for patients with symptoms or risk factors where detailed imaging is needed to guide diagnosis and treatment decisions.