Heart disease remains the leading cause of death globally—and in the Philippines. But with the advancement of diagnostic tools like CT Angiography (CTA), early and accurate detection is more possible than ever. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, or you’re simply at high risk due to age, genetics, or lifestyle, CT Angiography offers a fast, non-invasive, and highly accurate way to assess your cardiovascular health.
At Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC), our cardiovascular imaging team uses advanced CTA technology to help identify problems before they lead to heart attacks, strokes, or serious complications.
What Is CT Angiography and How It Works
CT Angiography (CTA) is a specialized imaging test that uses computed tomography (CT) and a contrast dye to produce detailed images of blood vessels and tissues in the body—most commonly the coronary arteries that supply the heart.
Unlike a traditional angiogram (which is more invasive and requires catheterization), CTA only involves:
- An intravenous (IV) injection of contrast dye
- A high-speed CT scanner that captures images in seconds
- Advanced software to reconstruct 3D visuals of your arteries
CTA helps visualize:
- Narrowing or blockages in coronary arteries
- Calcium buildup (atherosclerosis)
- Congenital heart anomalies
- Pulmonary embolism
- Aortic aneurysms or dissections
The clarity and speed of CTA make it an essential tool in today’s preventive cardiology— especially when early detection can mean the difference between managing a condition and responding to an emergency.
When Your Doctor Might Recommend a CTA Scan
Your physician may refer you for CT Angiography for a range of cardiovascular concerns. The decision is often based on symptoms, family history, and preliminary test results (like ECGs, blood tests, or stress tests).
Common reasons to undergo CTA:
- Unexplained chest pain
- Shortness of breath with exertion
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Suspected coronary artery disease
- High-risk patients with diabetes, hypertension, or smoking history
- Preoperative cardiac clearance for surgery
- Abnormal stress test results
CTA is particularly useful when initial exams are inconclusive. It provides a clear, real-time look at whether your symptoms are due to vascular obstruction, inflammation, or structural heart issues.
It may also be used to rule out life-threatening causes of chest pain, such as aortic dissection or pulmonary embolism.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Knowing what happens during a CTA scan can help put you at ease. The procedure is safe, efficient, and usually completed within 30 to 60 minutes.
Before the Scan:
- You may be asked to avoid caffeine and food for a few hours prior.
- Inform your doctor if you have allergies, kidney problems, or are pregnant.
- A mild sedative or beta-blocker may be given to help regulate heart rate for clearer images.
During the Scan:
- You’ll lie flat on a motorized table that moves into the CT scanner.
- An IV line will be inserted for the contrast dye.
- You may feel a warm sensation as the dye is injected.
- You’ll be asked to hold your breath for short intervals to minimize motion.
After the Scan:
- You can typically go home the same day.
- Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the dye.
- Results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours, interpreted by a radiologist and discussed by your referring physician or cardiologist.
CTA is non-invasive and generally well-tolerated—even for patients who are anxious about traditional angiography or those unable to undergo exercise-based testing.
Benefits of CTA: Fast, Non-Invasive, and Accurate
CTA has revolutionized cardiovascular diagnostics by offering a unique combination of speed, safety, and detail.
Key advantages of CT Angiography include:
- Non-invasive: No need for catheters or incisions
- Fast and convenient: Completed within an hour, with same-day discharge
- Highly accurate: Excellent for visualizing both calcified and soft plaque
- 3D visualization: Allows precise mapping of coronary anatomy and other vessels
- Prevents unnecessary procedures: Helps determine if invasive testing or surgery is really needed
For many patients, CTA reduces the need for hospitalization or invasive angiography. It also enables earlier interventions such as medication, lifestyle changes, or surgical planning before complications occur.
Why Choose CGHMC for Your Heart Imaging Needs
At Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center, we understand that early detection saves lives. Our Heart Institute and Institute of Radiological Sciences work hand in hand to provide you with accurate results, compassionate care, and timely interventions.
What sets CGHMC apart:
- State-of-the-art 512-slice CT Scan and Dual Source 160-Slice CT Scan with low-dose radiation protocols
- Cardiac-trained radiologists and imaging technologists
- Seamless coordination with cardiologists, pulmonologists, and internal medicine
- Quick scheduling and fast reporting
- Access to advanced cardiac diagnostics and interventional procedures when needed
Whether you’re being evaluated for risk or actively experiencing symptoms, CGHMC delivers a full range of heart care—from diagnostics to long-term treatment—in one trusted setting.
We don’t just detect problems—we help solve them.
Ask Your Doctor if CTA Is Right for Your Symptoms or Risks
Don’t let uncertainty about your heart health go unaddressed. If you’re experiencing unexplained chest pain, shortness of breath, or have risk factors for heart disease, CT Angiography may provide the answers you need—quickly and safely.
Call CGHMC at (02) 8711 4141 to schedule a consultation
Visit www.cghmc.com.ph to learn more about our cardiac imaging and Heart Institute services
Your heart deserves clarity. Let CGHMC help you get it in minutes.
