Overview of Cardiac CT Scan

A Cardiac CT Scan, also known as CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA), is a highly advanced, non-invasive imaging test that uses computed tomography (CT) technology to capture detailed pictures of the heart and its blood vessels. It helps detect blockages, plaque buildup, structural abnormalities, and early signs of coronary artery disease without the need for invasive procedures. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Karthik Raghuram, patients receive accurate imaging and expert interpretation to assess heart health and plan appropriate treatment.

Why a Cardiac CT Scan Is Important

A Cardiac CT Scan provides clear and high-resolution images of the coronary arteries. It is especially useful for:

• Detecting early plaque buildup and blockages

• Evaluating chest pain when ECG or TMT results are inconclusive

• Assessing risk of heart attack

• Screening for coronary artery disease in high-risk individuals

• Understanding heart anatomy before angioplasty or surgery

• Detecting congenital heart abnormalities

It offers early diagnosis, allowing timely treatment and prevention.

When Should You Consider a Cardiac CT Scan?

You may require a Cardiac CT Scan if you experience:

• Chest pain or discomfort

• Unexplained breathlessness

• Irregular heartbeats

• Fatigue on exertion

• Atypical symptoms with unclear cause

It is also recommended for individuals who have:

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Family history of heart disease

• Abnormal ECG, Echo, or TMT results

• Smoking history

A cardiac CT scan helps identify heart disease even before symptoms become severe.

How a Cardiac CT Scan Is Performed

The scan is simple, fast, and completely non-invasive:

• You lie on a scanning table

• ECG leads are placed to synchronize imaging with heartbeats

• The CT scanner rotates around the chest, capturing multiple images

• A contrast dye may be used to highlight blood vessels

• The procedure typically takes 10–20 minutes

• There is no pain and minimal recovery time

Dr. Karthik ensures clear instructions and complete comfort throughout the process.

Types of Cardiac CT Scans

1. CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA)

Visualizes coronary arteries to detect blockages and plaque.

2. Calcium Score (Coronary Calcium Scoring)

Measures calcium buildup in arteries to predict risk of heart attack.

3. CT for Congenital Heart Disease

Provides detailed images of heart structure for diagnosis and planning.

4. CT Cardiac Function Study

Evaluates the pumping ability of the heart.

Each type is recommended based on the patient’s condition and diagnostic needs.

Conditions Detected by Cardiac CT Scan

A cardiac CT scan can detect:

• Coronary artery disease

• Plaque buildup (soft or calcified)

• Narrowing of arteries

• Congenital heart defects

• Aortic diseases

• Heart muscle abnormalities

• Pericardial disease

• Bypass graft or stent assessment (in selected cases)

It is one of the most effective early screening tools for heart disease.

Benefits of Cardiac CT Scan with Dr. Karthik Raghuram

• Non-invasive alternative to traditional angiography

• High accuracy and rapid results

• Clear 3D heart visuals

• Early disease detection before symptoms worsen

• Helps plan treatment such as medication, stenting, or lifestyle changes

• Expert interpretation by an experienced cardiologist

When to Seek Immediate Evaluation

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

• Severe chest pain

• Sudden breathlessness

• Fainting

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

• Severe dizziness

These may indicate a cardiac emergency that requires prompt testing.

Book Your Cardiac CT Scan Consultation

A Cardiac CT Scan is one of the most advanced ways to evaluate heart health early and accurately. Schedule your scan with Dr. Karthik Raghuram to receive detailed imaging, expert interpretation, and personalised guidance for the next steps in your heart care.