In recent years, CT scanning (computed tomography) has advanced rapidly to the point where it is becoming a valuable tool in the diagnosis and management of coronary artery disease. This noninvasive or minimally invasive test uses multiple x-ray scans to produce very high-resolution images of internal organs, including the coronary arteries.

A coronary computed tomography angiogram (Coronary CTA) can detect soft plaque or fatty matter that has not yet hardened in the arteries. It is  used to determine the calcium score, or the degree of calcification in coronary arteries. Studies have shown that the coronary calcium score closely correlates to the degree of coronary artery disease and the likelihood of a major cardiac event. This test is less invasive than the angiogram and may be recommended for patients who are at high-risk for coronary artery disease but do not have typical symptoms.

Coronary CTA has yet to be considered as an adequate substitute for coronary angiography in patients who have strong evidence of narrowing of the coronary arteries. A patient’s physician can best determine the most appropriate diagnostic test. Coronary CTA continues to be an evaluated by medical professionals as a valuable tool for certain patients at risk for coronary artery disease.