### **Is CT angio better or angiography?** Coronary heart disease is one of the most common and dangerous diseases that requires quick and accurate diagnosis. To diagnose and evaluate the condition of the coronary arteries of the heart, there are two common imaging methods, which include CT Angiography and Coronary Angiography. Each of these methods has its own advantages and limitations, which we will compare in this article. **What is coronary angiography?** Coronary angiography is an invasive procedure in which, using catheterization, a thin tube is inserted into the coronary arteries and a contrast dye is injected into the arteries. Then, using **X-ray**, images are taken from inside the veins. This method directly and accurately shows the state of blockage or narrowing of the vessels. ### **Advantages of Coronary Angiography** - **High accuracy:** This method can accurately show the degree of blockage and the condition of the coronary arteries. - **Simultaneous treatment capability:** During angiography, if necessary, **angioplasty** or **stenting** can be used to open the vessels. - **Direct observation of the veins:** The images that are obtained are very accurate and help the doctor to prescribe appropriate treatments. In this regard, we suggest you to read the article on the difference between angiography and cardiac angioplasty. ### Disadvantages of coronary angiography - **Invasiveness:** Due to the insertion of the catheter into the body, this method is invasive and may be associated with risks. - **Possibility of complications:** There are some complications such as bleeding, infection, or damage to the vessels. - **need to be hospitalized:** In most cases, the patient must be hospitalized to perform this procedure and then be under medical supervision. **What is CT angiography (CTA)?** CT angiography is a non-invasive method that uses CT scanner to image coronary arteries and arteries. In this method, a contrast agent is injected into the veins and then 3D images of the vessels are obtained. CT angiography can show narrowing or blockage of vessels similar to coronary angiography. ### **advantages of CT angiography** - **Non-invasive:** Unlike coronary angiography, CT angiography is a non-invasive method and does not require inserting a catheter into the body. - **Speed ​​and convenience:** This method is fast and the patient does not need to be hospitalized. Usually, the patient can go home immediately after the scan. - **3D images:** CT angiography provides three-dimensional and accurate images of the coronary arteries, which are useful for diagnosis and treatment planning. - **Less complications:** This method has less risks than invasive methods such as coronary angiography. ### **Disadvantages of CT angiography** - **Need to use contrast dye:** Some patients may be allergic to contrast material. - **Inability to treat:** CT angiography only diagnoses the narrowing or blockage of vessels, and it is not possible to perform treatment such as stenting at that moment. - **Requires high accuracy of the device:** CT angiography requires high accuracy in scanning, so it may not work properly in people with irregular heartbeats. - **Radiation:** Due to the use of X-rays, in this method the patient is exposed to a certain amount of radiation. **Comparison of CT angiography and coronary angiography** **Differences** - **Invasiveness:** Coronary angiography is invasive and requires inserting a catheter into the veins, while **CT angiography** is non-invasive and is performed only through the injection of contrast material and imaging. **Accuracy:** Coronary angiography is very accurate in evaluating vessel blockages and can facilitate immediate treatment decisions such as angioplasty, while **CT angiography** has good accuracy but may be less accurate in detecting minor or complex blockages. - **Risks:** Coronary angiography may be associated with complications such as bleeding or damage to vessels, while CT angiography is less risky but may be problematic for patients with sensitivity to contrast dye. ### **Which one is better (CT angio, angiography)?** **Coronary angiography** is more suitable for patients who need urgent treatment such as angioplasty or stenting. CT angiography is an excellent choice for the initial evaluation of patients or those who require non-invasive diagnosis, and is especially useful for those who are at high risk of coronary artery disease or those who require accurate testing without high risks. Finally, the choice between **CT angiography** and **coronary angiography** depends on the patient's condition, the severity of the disease and the need for immediate treatment. For many patients, **CT angiography** is a non-invasive and useful option that can help doctors evaluate the condition of **coronary vessels**. But in cases where a more detailed evaluation or immediate treatment is needed, **coronary angiography is a better option**. This decision should be made by a specialist doctor based on the medical history and individual needs of the patient in order to choose the best method for diagnosing and treating the disease. **Dr. Marvarid Dadres** **Cardiovascular and echocardiography specialist** With years of experience, he can help patients to diagnose and **treat heart disease in Tehran** so that they can regain their health as soon as possible.