CTCA

Computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) is an imaging test that helps determine if plaque buildup has narrowed a patient's coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply the heart. Plaque is made of fat, cholesterol and calcium, which can deposit along the inner lining of the arteries.

Patients undergoing a CTCA scan receive an iodine-containing fluid as an intravenous (IV) injection to produce the best possible images of the heart's blood vessels.

Computed tomography, more commonly known as a CT scan, is a diagnostic medical test that produces images of coronary arteries in multiple planes to identify and define narrowing and plaque.

CTCA in an effective strategy in the assessment of patients with many types of chest pain.

Dr Nowakowski was recognised as a CTCA specialist in 2012 and has extensive knowledge in the benefits and limitations of this technology. He has a particular interest in the evaluation of patients with chest pain and refers patients to local specialists who perform and report these scans.