Virtual Cardiac Angiography (CT Coronary Angiography)

What is Virtual Cardiac Angiography?

Virtual cardiac angiography is a modern, non-invasive method used to visualize the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. It is performed using a computed tomography (CT) scanner along with an intravenous contrast agent.
It is especially used in patients suspected of having coronary artery disease and provides a detailed view of the heart vessels without the need for catheter insertion, as in traditional angiography.

How is the procedure performed?

• Preparation: The patient should not eat, consume caffeine, or use nicotine for a few hours before the procedure.

• Medication: Beta-blockers may be given to slow down the heart rate. Sometimes, nitroglycerin is administered under the tongue to dilate the vessels.

• Contrast Agent: An iodine-based contrast agent is injected intravenously.

• CT Scan: Once the heart rate is stabilized, imaging is performed with the CT scanner.

• Duration: The imaging process takes about 10–15 minutes, while the entire procedure lasts approximately 30–60 minutes.

Advantages of Virtual Angiography

• Non-invasive: No catheter is used, so the risks are lower.

• Painless and fast: More comfortable compared to traditional angiography.

• Early diagnosis: Helps detect narrowing and plaque formation in vessels at an early stage.

• Detailed information: Provides insights into the structure of the vessel wall and types of plaques.

• Suitable for follow-up: Useful for monitoring low-risk patients or those with a previously placed stent.