Heart CT Scan

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A computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart is a diagnostic test that records detailed images of the blood vessels and heart without the need for catheterization. The diagnostic test demonstrates narrowed or blocked arteries surrounding the heart, as well as other abnormalities of the heart.

Conditions Detected with Heart CT Scan

A heart CT scan is an advanced diagnostic imaging technique that’s non-invasive and comfortable for our patients. Heart CT scans are used to diagnose a wide range of cardiac conditions. Common cardiac conditions detected with a heart CT scan include:

• Blood clots
• Congenital heart conditions
• Injuries or defects in the heart’s valves
• Plaque buildup around the heart and arteries
• Tumors

The list above is by no means comprehensive. If you or your provider believe you can benefit from a heart CT scan, we encourage you to come in and see the expert cardiovascular specialists at Wooster Community Hospital. We’ll be happy to sit down with you, listen to your concerns, evaluate your condition, and provide you with a personalized treatment plan that may include a diagnostic heart CT scan to ensure you’re in good health.

Preparing for Your Heart CT Scan

Prior to your heart CT scan appointment, one of our dedicated team members will likely reach out to you to provide you with more information about the location of our CT scan as well as detailed instructions to prepare for your heart CT scan appointment. If one of our team members does not reach out to you within one week of your appointment, we encourage you to reach out to us to get any of your questions answered.

What to Expect from Your Heart CT Scan

Prior to your heart CT scan, you will be given medication to slow your heart rate. Once your heart rate is in the acceptable range, the CT scan can be performed.

Your provider will ask you to lie on your back on the CT table with your arms over your head, resting on a pillow. Once settled and comfortable, you will be asked to hold your breath. This is very important because a breathing motion will compromise the study results. The longest you will be asked to hold your breath is fifteen (15) seconds.

A contrast material is administered through an IV while you are holding your breath. This contrast dye is used to highlight the cardiac veins and arteries for taking pictures. You may feel a warm sensation from the contrast, which should subside quickly after the exam has been completed.

Wooster Community Hospital uses state-of-the-art technology with our 64-slice CT scanner. In addition to the high speed and quality images produced by the scanner, new cardiac studies, vessel analysis, and 3D reconstructions can also be performed.

Heart CT Scan in Wooster, OH

Receiving high-quality care for your condition is easier than ever with the help of the expert providers at Wooster Community Hospital. For more information about your heart CT scan or preparing for your appointment, please contact The Cardiovascular Institute at Wooster Community Hospital at (330) 263-8282. One of our friendly and dedicated team members will be happy to answer any questions you may have over the phone and may also assist you in scheduling your heart CT scan appointment with us.