Is cardiac computed tomography risky?

A CT scan is generally a very low risk procedure. There are two general types of CT scans for the heart. The first is a non-contrast enhanced calcium scan. This does not require an IV and does not require a contrast dye and therefore there is no risk of contrast dye reactions. A non-contrast enhanced calcium scan does use ionizing radiation, or x-rays, and therefore, there is some radiation exposure associated with the study. However, with the latest generation of CT scanners, this radiation exposure is about one third compared to the annual radiation dose that we all receive in the United States from the environment.

The other type of a CT scan is a contrast enhanced CT coronary angiogram. This does require the placement of an IV and does require the use of IV contrast dye based on iodine. If you are allergic to iodine or shellfish, there may be a chance that you may have an allergic reaction. You need to notify your physician if you are known to be allergic to iodine. In addition, CT coronary angiograms also utilize x-rays or a CT scanner and these utilize ionizing radiation therefore there is some radiation exposure. However, with the latest generation of CT scanners this radiation is very low. Specifically, with the latest generation 320 detector row CT scanners the radiation that is associated with a CT coronary angiogram is not more than a cardiac catheterization and is only slightly more than the annual background radiation we all receive in the Ubited States.