Overview
Cardiac CT provides non invasive assessment of coronary arteries and cardiac structures. It is used for calcium scoring and coronary CT angiography. It aids in risk stratification and procedural planning.
Acquisition Techniques
ECG gating and dose modulation optimize cardiac CT studies. Contrast timing and bolus tracking improve coronary opacification. Heart rate control may be used to improve image quality.
Clinical Indications
Indications include chest pain evaluation and pre procedural planning. Cardiac CT helps assess coronary anomalies and bypass grafts. It complements functional testing and invasive angiography.
Limitations and Safety
Radiation dose and contrast nephropathy are considerations in cardiac CT. Patient selection and protocol optimization mitigate risks. Alternative modalities may be preferred in some patients.