Understanding Virtual Angiograms: What You Need to Know

Heart diseases are one of the major causes of death in the world. The number is increasing day by day. According to an estimate, about 17.9 million people died in 2019 due to cardiovascular diseases. The number is highly alarming as it indicates the risk in the future. Side by side, imaging technologies have been upgraded. Now, there are advanced imaging technologies, such as virtual angiograms. Virtual angiograms are unlike traditional angiograms and do not pose any risk or pain. In this post, we will explain virtual angiograms in detail so that you may take active measures for your heart health. 

What is a Virtual Angiogram? 

A virtual angiogram or CT angiogram is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses CT computed tomography technology to capture images of the blood vessels within the body and the heart. It offers a detailed view of blood flow through blood vessels and highlights any obstruction that may disrupt the blood flow and cause some major cardiac issues. The virtual angiogram is different from the traditional angiogram as it is non-invasive and does not require a recovery time after the CT angiogram scan. 

What is the difference between Traditional and Virtual Angiograms? 

A traditional angiogram scan relies on X-rays to create images of the blood vessels of the heart. Doctors need the photos to find any obstruction within the blood flow in the blood vessels. In this way, an angiogram diagnoses the heart conditions that may cause potential harm to the body. Nevertheless, the traditional angiogram works by inserting a catheter in the artery near the wrist or the groin to insert contrast dye to highlight the blood flow within the targeted area. As the contrast dye flows within the blood vessels, the X-rays highlight the obstruction in the blood flow within the targeted area. 

On the other hand, a virtual or CT angiogram is less invasive and painless than a traditional angiogram scan. The primary difference between the two is the use of technology, which is computed tomography.  The CT angiogram takes detailed and cross-sectional images of the heart’s blood vessels. This helps find the blockage within one or two blood vessels that might be the cause of a heart attack. Doctors often suggest a virtual angiogram when there is a need for surgery to prevent a major cardiovascular disease or attack. 

What is the role of virtual angiograms in the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases? 

A virtual angiogram, also known as coronary CT angiography, helps diagnose coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease is one of the major causes of cardiac arrest among people. However, a virtual angiogram prevents the risk of coronary artery disease and cardiac arrest by offering detailed images of the heart,  blood vessels,  and arteries through a non-invasive procedure. This allows doctors to take a good look at the heart without the need for traditional invasive procedures. It helps in taking preventive measures to avoid any other major cardiovascular diseases and also indicates the need for further scans and procedures.

In addition to this, a virtual angiogram accurately measures the degree of the narrowing of blood vessels and arteries. Thus, it allows for timely intervention and planning. Furthermore, it is also suitable for determining the effectiveness of the procedure, such as bypass or other medical treatment. Nevertheless, a heavy calcification might disrupt the accuracy of the virtual angiogram. 

What are the Benefits of Virtual Angiogram? 

A virtual angiogram offers many benefits, such as:

• The scan provides precise anatomical details specifically for blood vessels. 
• The procedure is non-invasive and simple. In addition, there is no risk of infection as no rays are left on the body.
• It offers a fast diagnosis as the results come out quickly. 
• The virtual angiogram is less expensive than the traditional angiogram. 
• Above all, the virtual angiogram is versatile as it can be used for the diagnosis of a variety of conditions, such as aortic aneurysms, congenital heart defects, vascular injury, and coronary artery disease. 

This procedure helps determine the best treatment for patients. 

What are the Considerations and Limitations of the Virtual Angiogram? 

• In the virtual angiogram, it is difficult to assess the severity of stenosis. 
• It is important that you avoid stairs three days prior to the scan.
• Do not lift any heavy objects for three days after the scan.
• The scan does not highlight the cause of tumors or narrowing of blood vessels. 

Conclusion 

Heart diseases are one of the major causes of death in the world. In that regard, a virtual angiogram is highly effective. It is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses CT computed tomography technology to capture images of the blood vessels within the body and the heart. ViaScan Las Colinas offers comprehensive scanning and CT scan services to allow you to take better care of your heart health.