Cardiology Conference-CVC 2026

Because it employs computed tomography and contrast agents for the non-invasive assessment of coronary arteries, cardiac anatomy, and other vascular territories, CT angiography (CTA) is a 3D imaging technique that can provide incredible resolution. It can inform the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease. CTA can be used in the following clinical applications:

Assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD): Assess for the extent of stenosis, plaque burden, and calcification in the coronary arteries, which can inform treatment plans for revascularization.

Pre-procedure planning: Assess for important anatomical structures helping the proceduralist plan for an intervention (i.e., stenting, TAVR, and other structural heart intervention).

Determinations of congenital heart disease: A 3D CT Angiogram can provide important anatomical information for surgical or interventional planning.

Assessment of aneurysms and vascular malformations: Assess for thoracic or abdominal aortic aneurysm, or other vascular malformations.

There are several advantages to performing CTA, including non-invasiveness, rapid acquisition of images, and high spatial resolution to visualize small vessels and complex cardiac anatomy. CTA also serves to complement two-dimensional imaging modalities that may promote trajectory visualization while performing interventions such as echocardiogram or MRI, CTA can provide adequate anatomy visualization for intervention.

Patient preparation and safety concepts will include contrast administration, heart rate control, and reducing the overall radiation dose. The latest scanners utilize low-dose protocols and advanced boards that allow for lower rates of radiation without compromising image quality.

CTA is a valuable asset for diagnosing coronary and vascular disease, to assist in guiding procedural interventions, and to monitor treatment.