Tests and Procedures

CT coronary angiogram

Overview

A computerized tomography (CT) coronary angiogram is an imaging test that looks at the arteries that supply blood to your heart. It might be done to diagnose the cause of chest pain or other symptoms.

A CT coronary angiogram uses a powerful X-ray machine to produce images of your heart and its blood vessels. The procedure is noninvasive and doesn't require recovery time. CT coronary angiograms are used to diagnose a variety of heart conditions.

A coronary CT angiogram is different from a standard coronary angiogram. In the traditional procedure (non-CT angiogram), a flexible tube (catheter) is threaded through your groin or arm to your heart or coronary arteries. If you have known coronary artery disease, your doctor might recommend the traditional approach because you can also receive treatment during the procedure.