Dr. Ramji Mehrotra | Cardiac CT Scan

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) scan, also known as cardiac CT angiography or CTA, is a cutting-edge diagnostic tool that provides detailed images of the heart and its blood vessels. This non-invasive imaging technique has revolutionized the field of cardiology by offering unparalleled insights into the structure and function of the heart.

Uses of Cardiac CT Scan

According to Dr. Ramji Mehrotra, leading cardiovascular surgeon in the NCR region, there are several uses of the Cardiac CT scan including:

1.   Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Assessment: One of the primary applications of cardiac CT is the evaluation of coronary arteries. It helps identify blockages, stenosis, or plaques within these vital blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. This is particularly important for diagnosing CAD, a leading cause of heart disease.

2.   Calcium Scoring: Cardiac CT scans can measure the amount of calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, a significant risk factor for heart disease. A high calcium score indicates a higher risk of heart-related events.

3.   Congenital Heart Abnormalities: Cardiac CT is instrumental in detecting and assessing congenital heart defects or abnormalities in adults and children. It helps cardiologists plan surgeries or interventions.

4.   Assessment of Cardiac Anatomy: These scans offer detailed anatomical information about the heart's chambers, valves, and the aorta. This aids in diagnosing conditions like heart valve disease or aortic aneurysms.

Cardiac CT Procedure

A cardiac CT scan involves several key steps:

1.    Patient Preparation: Before the procedure, patients may be asked to abstain from eating or drinking for a specified period. It is important to inform the healthcare team about any allergies or pre-existing medical conditions.

2.    Contrast Injection: A contrast dye is injected into a vein to enhance the visibility of blood vessels and heart structures in the images.

3.    Scanning: The patient lies on a table that moves into the CT scanner, which resembles a large donut-shaped machine. During the scan, X-ray technology and detectors capture multiple cross-sectional images of the heart.

4.    Breath-Holding and Monitoring: Patients are asked to hold their breath for short periods to minimize motion artifacts in the images. Medical personnel closely monitor vital signs throughout the procedure.

5.    Data Processing: Advanced computer software processes the collected data to create detailed, three-dimensional images of the heart and surrounding structures.

Benefits of Cardiac CT Scan

Ø  Non-Invasiveness: Unlike traditional angiography, cardiac CT is non-invasive and does not require catheter insertion into blood vessels, reducing the risk of complications and recovery time.

Ø  High Resolution: Cardiac CT provides exceptionally high-resolution images, allowing precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

Ø  Speed: The procedure is relatively quick, typically taking less than 30 minutes, and patients can usually return to their daily activities afterwards.

Ø  Early Detection: It can identify heart conditions at an early stage, enabling timely interventions and improved outcomes.

Conclusion

Dr Ramji Mehrotra is of the opinion that Cardiac CT scans have become an indispensable tool in the field of cardiology, providing a comprehensive view of the heart's structure and function. They play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing various heart conditions, from coronary artery disease to congenital abnormalities. As technology continues to advance, cardiac CT scans are expected to become even more precise and informative, further improving the care and outcomes for patients with heart-related issues.

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