1.

What types of testing can you do for chest discomfort?
Your cardiologist may consider one or more of the following:

    *
      Treadmill stress test
    *
      Nuclear cardiology exam
    *
      Diagnostic angiography
    *
      CTA

 

 2.

 

What possible symptoms / personal lifestyles should I pay attention to?
Symptoms may include:

    *
      Chest discomfort
    *
      Radiating pain in back, neck, chin
    *
      Nub arm, jaw

 

Lifestyle habits of concern include:

    *
      Smoking
    *
      Overweight
      Poor diet
    *
      Lack of exercise
    *
      Age

 

 3.

 

I have a family history of cardiac disease. Does this really make any difference to me?
Yes, it can make a difference.  However only your cardiologist is experienced enough to tell you how much of a difference.

 

 4.

 

Will my insurance cover a cardiac CTA for this type of visit? Will they pay if I’m a “high risk” patient?
Check with your cardiologist and insurance carrier.  Many insurance providers offer coverage for qualified patients.  Note that Medicare does not offer coverage for this exam.

 

5.

 

What is the best way to find out information about my risk for heart problems?
Follow this link to the Framingham Heart Study website.  Here you will find prediction score sheets to help you determine your risk.

 

6.

 

When I have this cardiac CTA test, do you check it for other clinical information? What sort?
This exam provides a lot of information.  Your cardiologist will look at the health of your heart and coronary arteries.  A radiologist will look at your chest, lungs and aorta.  They will report any issues.

 

7.

 

If you find something, what are my treatment options?
Possible treatment options may include:

    *
      Medicine
    *
      Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to place a stent
    *
      Cardiac surgery – such as bypass surgery

 

8.

 

I hear that the cardiac CTA exam is non-invasive. What does this mean?
There is no scalpel used to cut the skin – no catheter inserted into your body.  You will only get an IV of iodine in your arm.

 

9.

 

How long will it take for this cardiac CTA exam?  Where can I go to get it?
On a Philips Brilliance 64-channel CT it will take only 10 seconds.  You may have to wait another 15 to 30 minutes for the exam results to be read.
The exam is typically done in a hospital or out-patient clinic.

 

10.

 

I read that CT uses x-rays. Is this dangerous? How do I know how much radiation I have had?
People receive about 3 milliSieverts of background radiation throughout daily life each year.  On a Philips Brilliance 64-channel CT you will receive between 10 and 15 milliSieverts.  New Step & Shoot Cardiac technology can reduce that even further.