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MCVI is pleased to offer their patients the
newest and most innovative technology available in cardiovascular care.
One
such technology is cardiac computed tomography (cardiac CT). Using
advanced imaging capabilities and three-dimensional reconstruction, we can now
see the walls and the insides of the blood vessels of the heart, brain, lungs,
abdomen, and legs completely non-invasively. Using this technology, many
patients now avoid invasive catheter angiography.
CT Calcium Score
Coronary artery calcification is often the first sign of a
heart attack, and is a powerful risk indicator for your chances of developing a
heart attack. This coronary calcium buildup is detected quickly, easily,
and painlessly with a CT calcium score. The physician will receive a score
that indicates the extent of calcification of the hearts coronary arteries.
If calcium buildup in your arteries is identified, early preventative therapy
can be initiated.
CT Angiography
CT Angiography is a safe, faster non-invasive alternative to cardiac
catheterization.
How it works
X-Ray beams capture cross section images of an area of the body. A
computer then combines them into a three-dimensional picture. These highly
detailed images allow physicians to detect and diagnose problems without an
incision or invasive means.
The Test
CT-Angiography is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.
Physicians examine the arteries that travel to the lungs, heart, neck, kidneys,
pelvis, and legs to check for blockages and other problems. Aneurysms in
the aorta, brain or other major blood vessels can be identified. Aortic
problems such as dissection (where the layers of the artery peel away from each
other), and the ability to check functioning stents (mesh tube used to restore
blood flow to blocked arteries) are also identified.
During the Test
An I.V. will be placed in your arm and contrast material (dye) will be
injected through a vein to make blood vessels stand out during the test.
An automatic injector machine will inject they dye at a controlled rate.
You may feel warmth but this should not be painful at any time.
For conorary exams, you will receive a medication called Nitroglycerine. In addition a medication may be administered through an IV in your arm to slow your heart rate. This is done to obtain the best results during the test.
A rotating device (the gantry) spins around you, creating a fan-shaped beam of x-rays to take pictures in slices of your body. The table will move in and out of the scanner opening. You will be asked to remain still and may be asked to hold your breath periodically. This takes about 10-25 minutes and your visit will last about an hour.
Please feel free to call our office at
1-877-725-MCVI (6284) or (989) 754-3000 if you have further questions or to
speak with your physician about having a CT done.