Coronary CT Angiography

Dr. Jeffrey Peeke Cardiothroacic Fellowship Trained Radiologist

Cardiac CT provides physicians with a noninvasive and highly accurate assessment of coronary artery disease and cardiac function.  The examination typically consists of two steps: noncontrast calcium scoring followed by contrast enhanced CT angiography.  Both steps require ECG gating.Calcium scoring, whether used alone as a screening tool or as part of a cardiac CT exam, provides an objective method for cardiac risk stratification.  It is typically performed in patients with intermediate risk for coronary heart disease.  An elevated calcium score may re-stratify a patient into a higher risk and treatment level.  When performed as the initial part of a CTA exam it allows risk stratification and also aids the interpreting imager in assessment of coronary stenoses.Coronary CT angiography accurately detects and grades coronary stenoses and also allows differentiation between calcified and “vulnerable” noncalcified atherosclerotic plaque.  Because images are obtained throughout the cardiac cycle they can be manipulated so that left ventricular wall motion and ejection fraction are examined.  Additionally, we specifically evaluate the medistinum and imaged portions of the lungs, providing your patients with the same radiologic expertise that would be expected of other CT exams.  Research has demonstrated that significant extra-cardiac findings are not infrequently discovered at cardiac CT, some accounting for atypical chest pain symptoms and others requiring additional investigation.  We are excited to be able to offer this new technology to you and your patients.