View source for Cardiac computed tomography

'''Cardiac [[CT]]''' is a frequently performed modality for the evaluation of [[coronary artery disease]]. Commonly used techniques include coronary [[CT angiography]] and calcium scoring.

A beta blocker and nitrate are usually given beforehand. The beta blocker reduces the heart rate to the ideal 60 bpm, while the nitrate dilates the coronary arteries, improving visualisation.

Cardiac CT can be “coupled” to an [[ECG]] so that it only takes pictures during the same part of the cardiac cycle. This reduces noise made from movement of the heart.