64 slice Computed Tomography Angiography (64 slice CTA) is a new, state-of-the-art, non-invasive, diagnostic tool that visualizes the myocardium (heart), aorta, lungs and coronary circulation and may dramatically alter the way cardiac and vascular diseases such as coronary artery disease (CAD), dissections and aneurysms of the aorta, and atrial fibrillation are diagnosed, evaluated and treated.
The computed tomography (CT) scanner used for 64 slice CTA examinations divides the heart, aorta and lungs into 64 imaginary slices. This results in a more precise image in less time. The 64 slice CTA produces near perfect, three dimensional, high quality diagnostic images of the heart, aorta, lungs, and coronary circulation.
64 slice CTA scanner.
The coronary circulation is comprised of the coronary arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the myocardium (heart). Coronary artery disease, or narrowing of the coronary arteries, may result in unstable angina (chest pain), myocardial infarction (heart attack), or sudden death. Up until now, invasive cardiac angiography, also called cardiac catheterization, has been the gold standard for the diagnosis and evaluation of CAD. Imaging with 64 slice CTA uses non-invasive means to diagnose and evaluate CAD. 64 slice CTA is a highly accurate alternative to cardiac catheterization especially for those patients that are unlikely to have significant CAD.
An image of the heart using 64 slice CTA imaging.
The peripheral arterial circulation is comprised of the aorta and all the arteries in your body. The aorta arises from the left ventricle of the heart. The major arteries coming off the aorta supply oxygenated blood to the head, neck, major organs in the abdomen, and the arms and legs. An abdominal aortic aneurysm involves a dilation, stretching, or ballooning of the aorta which can lead to enlargement and rupture of the aorta resulting in death. The 64 slice CTA is a highly accurate, non-invasive test for assessing the presence of an aortic aneurysm. This test may also be utilized after endovascular stent graft repair of an aortic aneurysm.
An image of an abdominal aortic aneurysm using 64 slice CTA imaging.
Offered through Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Radiology Department, the entire test takes about 30 to 90 minutes. 64 slice CTA offers physicians the ability to quickly and non-invasively diagnose cardiac and vascular disease. Quick diagnosis using 64 slice CTA technology will result in patients' receiving life saving treatment in a more timely manner.
A physicians request is required prior to scheduling a 64 slice CTA. For more information, please contact your physician.
64 Slice CTA
Before the test
Day of the test
During the test
After the test
Developed and Reviewed by: Department of Radiology
Review Date: 09/05
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