Conventional angiography has been the primary method of imaging the heart vessels for nearly 50 years. It is entered through the inguinal artery with a catheter and advances the catheter up to the exit of the coronary artery. Imaging is performed by administering contrast material to the coronary arteries. If stenosis is seen in the veins, treatment is planned.

However, this method is invasive and complications are seen at a rate of 1-2%.

Requires preparation and sedation. It takes an average of 45 minutes and is a relatively expensive method of inspection. In addition, stenosis is not found in 1 out of 4 patients.

VCT coronary angiography is performed in 5 seconds by administering contrast material from a vein in the arm. The catheter is not used and the patient can continue his daily life after the procedure. The introduction of this method is a milestone in coronary artery imaging.

In the patient group without clinical symptoms, early coronary stenosis can be easily detected and treatment can be directed. In many patients, unnecessary conventional angiography is not performed.

What are the most common reasons for use?
Suspected of having coronary artery disease.
Patients with mild to moderate risk of coronary artery disease and describing atypical chest pain.
In case the stress test is insufficient or suspiciously positive.
In patients with moderate or high risk of coronary artery disease but without complaints.

How preparation should be done?
It requires fasting before 4 hours.
Before the procedure, the side effects of the procedure and the drug used during the procedure are explained in detail. The doctor gets information about the short medical history.
It is recommended not to take caffeine-containing coffee, tea, energy drinks or soda before and on the day of the procedure. Viagra and similar drugs should not be used.
In some cases, it may be necessary to take medications called beta blockers that slow down the pulse before the procedure.
Information should be given in case of pregnancy or pregnancy suspected.
It is recommended to stop breastfeeding for 24 hours in breastfeeding patients.

How is the transaction done?
During the examination, a contrast agent is given through the vein in the arm. When the contrast agent reaches the level of the coronary arteries, an x-ray is sent to the body and the incoming signal is received with a special detector. 3D images of the coronary arteries are created using computers.
Although the examination period is limited to seconds, 5 to 10 d when considered with preliminary preparations. takes.

How will I feel during and after the review?
The examination is painless, quick and easy.
During the examination, a general feeling of warmth spreading to the body due to the drug used and a metallic taste on the tongue may be felt.
After the procedure, daily normal activities can be resumed.

What are the limitations of coronary CT angiography?
Image quality may not be sufficient in overweight patients.
Appropriate images may not be obtained in arrhythmia patients.
Conventional angiography is appropriate in high-risk patients with typical coronary artery disease complaints. Because stent application for therapeutic purposes can also be applied in the same session.