Coronary CT angiography is a noninvasive imaging test that lets our physicians see the arteries supplying blood to your heart in remarkable detail. With Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) in Los Angeles, we can identify plaque build up, narrowed vessels, blood clots, aneurysms, and congenital heart defects early and guide you toward lasting heart health.
Detect Heart Artery
Blockages Early
Coronary CT angiography is an advanced imaging test that uses a CT scanner and contrast dye to produce highly detailed pictures of your coronary arteries. These arteries supply vital blood and oxygen to your heart muscle, and even small blockages can affect your health. With this test, our physicians identify plaque build-up, narrowing of vessels, blood clots, aneurysms, or congenital abnormalities. Because it provides such precise images, coronary CT angiography helps diagnose heart conditions and plan effective treatments.
Coronary CT Angiography Identifies:
- Plaque build-up that narrows or blocks your arteries
- Blood clots that increase the risk of heart attack or stroke
- Aneurysms, or dangerous bulges in artery walls
- Congenital heart defects present from birth
- Narrowed or disrupted vessels affecting blood flow
- Changes from prior heart surgeries or treatments
Why is Coronary CT Angiography Done
Coronary CT angiography is performed to give your physicians a clear, detailed view of the arteries that supply blood to your heart. By detecting problems early, this non-invasive test can help prevent serious complications like heart attacks or strokes. It also guides us in creating a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
You may need coronary CT angiography if:
- You experience chest pain or shortness of breath
- You have risk factors for heart disease
- You underwent prior heart surgery or stent placement
- You have abnormal results from other heart tests
- You may have a congenital heart condition
What to Expect During Your Coronary
CT Angiography
During your Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) in Los Angeles, you will be positioned on a motorized table that slides into the CT scanner. An intravenous (IV) catheter will be placed, typically in a vein in your arm, to administer contrast dye. This highlights your coronary arteries and improves visualization of vessel walls, plaque deposits, and blood flow patterns. When the dye is injected, you may experience a warm flush or metallic taste, both of which are normal and short-lived. Our physicians will monitor your heart rhythm with ECG leads. You will also be asked to hold your breath for short intervals. The CT scanner rapidly acquires hundreds of cross-sectional images, which are reconstructed into detailed 3D images of your coronary arteries. After the test, we review the scans to detect blockages, calcifications, or anatomical abnormalities. We then create a precise treatment plan to address your cardiovascular needs.
Interpreting Your Coronary CT Angiography
Once your coronary CT angiography is complete, our physicians carefully review the images to assess the condition of your coronary arteries and overall heart health. The scan provides high-resolution detail, allowing us to detect even subtle changes that may not appear on other tests. By interpreting your results, we can determine the next steps in your care.
Your results may show:
- Normal coronary arteries with no signs of narrowing or blockages
- Calcified plaque deposits that may limit blood flow
- Non-calcified (soft) plaque that could increase the risk of rupture
- Significant narrowing (stenosis) of one or more arteries
- Evidence of prior stents or bypass grafts and how they are functioning
- Congenital abnormalities or other structural issues affecting blood flow
Coronary CT Angiography FAQs
Do I need to prepare for a coronary CT angiography?
You may be asked to avoid caffeine and certain medications for 24 hours before your scan, and to fast for a few hours beforehand. Our team will give you specific instructions based on your health history.
Is the contrast dye used in CT angiography safe?
The contrast dye is generally safe for most patients, though it’s important to let us know about any allergies or kidney conditions beforehand, as these may require special precautions.
How long does the coronary CT angiography procedure take?
The scan itself typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes, though you should plan for up to an hour total when including preparation and IV placement.
How much radiation exposure is involved in a CT angiography?
Coronary CT angiography uses a low dose of radiation, and modern scanning technology has significantly reduced exposure compared to older imaging methods, keeping it within a safe range for diagnostic use.
When will I receive my coronary CT angiography results?
Precision Cardiology, Harvard-Trained
Dr. Sumita Paul is a Harvard-trained cardiologist with over 30 years of experience in cardiovascular medicine and preventive care. As a leading heart specialist in Los Angeles, she combines advanced diagnostics, evidence-based medicine, and personalized treatment strategies to help patients protect their heart health and live longer, stronger lives. At our cardiologist clinic in Los Angeles, Dr. Paul and her team offer comprehensive cardiac care, from early risk detection to long-term disease management, ensuring every patient receives the attentive, individualized treatment they deserve. Whether you’re managing an existing heart condition or focused on prevention, Dr. Paul’s expertise and compassionate approach make her one of the most sought-after cardiologists in the greater Los Angeles area.
Schedule Your Consultation
California Cardiac Institute is dedicated to helping you protect your heart through early diagnosis and prevention. With our state-of-the-art imaging center, including the advanced cardiac PET scan and coronary CT angiography, we deliver precise answers to safeguard your long-term health. Our physicians combine the best medicine with personalized care to support your longevity. Schedule your Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) in Los Angeles today and take the next step toward a healthier, longer life.