What does CTCA mean in CLINICAL MEDICINE

A CTCA is an imaging procedure that uses a special X-ray machine to take detailed pictures of the heart and its blood vessels in order to diagnose coronary artery disease.

During the procedure, the patient lies on a table that slides into an X-ray machine. The X-rays are then taken from several different angles as the machine rotates around the table.

Usually patients do not need any specific preparation before having a CTCA scan; however, it is important to discuss any current medications with your doctor as some medications interfere with imaging results or cause side effects during scanning. Your doctor may also advise you to fast for several hours prior to your scan depending on what type of test they are ordering.

Generally speaking, there are no significant risks associated with having a CTCA since there is only minimal exposure to radiation during this procedure compared to other more invasive cardiac tests such as an angiogram or cardiac catheterization. However, as with all medical procedures there may be some potential complications such as allergic reaction and contrast dye reaction if contrast dye is used during your scan.

Most people do not experience any discomfort during a CTCA as they remain lying still while images are taken during their scan. Depending on how long your particular test takes you may feel some minor discomfort from lying in position for an extended period of time.