By: Abdi Waluyo Hospital

Overview

What is Cardiac CT with Photon-Counting CT?

A Cardiac CT (Computed Tomography) scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses X-rays and advanced computer technology to create highly detailed images of the heart and blood vessels. It helps doctors evaluate the structure of the heart, detect coronary artery disease, assess heart function, and identify other cardiovascular conditions.

At RS Abdi Waluyo, Cardiac CT is performed using the latest Photon-Counting CT (PCCT) technology. Unlike conventional CT scanners, Photon-Counting CT directly detects individual X-ray photons, producing exceptionally sharp images with greater detail while using lower radiation doses. This breakthrough technology allows physicians to visualize even small coronary arteries, plaques, and heart structures with remarkable precision, leading to earlier and more accurate diagnosis.

Why is Cardiac CT Performed?

Your doctor may recommend a Cardiac CT to:

Evaluate chest pain or other symptoms that may be related to heart disease.
Detect narrowing or blockage in the coronary arteries.
Assess calcium buildup in the coronary arteries (Coronary Calcium Score).
Evaluate congenital heart abnormalities.
Assess the anatomy of the heart before structural heart procedures or surgery.
Monitor known coronary artery disease.
Evaluate bypass grafts or coronary stents in selected patients.
Assist in planning treatment for cardiovascular conditions.

A Cardiac CT can often help determine whether invasive testing is necessary, allowing many patients to avoid unnecessary procedures.

Details of the Examination

Cardiac CT with Photon-Counting CT is a fast, painless outpatient examination.

Depending on your clinical condition, the examination may include:

Coronary CT Angiography (CTA)
Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring
Assessment of heart chambers and valves
Evaluation of the aorta and major blood vessels
Functional assessment of cardiac structures

To obtain the best image quality:

You may be asked to avoid caffeine, nicotine, or strenuous exercise before the examination.
Your doctor may prescribe medication to slow your heart rate if necessary.
An intravenous (IV) line may be inserted to administer contrast dye during Coronary CT Angiography.
You may be asked to fast for several hours before the scan if contrast material will be used.

Your healthcare team will provide personalized preparation instructions before your appointment.

What Happens During the Examination?

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the radiology team and prepared for the scan.

During the examination:

You will lie comfortably on the CT examination table.
Electrodes will be placed on your chest to monitor your heartbeat (ECG-gating).
If contrast is required, an IV line will be inserted into your arm.
The examination table will move through the Photon-Counting CT scanner while images are acquired.
You will be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during image acquisition to reduce motion and improve image quality.
The entire examination usually takes approximately 10–20 minutes, while the actual scan typically lasts only a few seconds.

The procedure is painless. Some patients may experience a brief warm sensation or metallic taste when contrast dye is injected, which usually resolves quickly.

What Should I Expect After the Examination?

Most patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately after the scan.

If contrast dye was used:

Drink plenty of water to help flush the contrast material from your body.
Continue taking your regular medications unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
You may resume your usual diet unless advised differently.

If you received medication to slow your heart rate, you may be observed briefly before leaving the imaging department.

What Are the Risks?

Cardiac CT is considered a safe diagnostic examination.

Potential risks include:

Exposure to a small amount of ionizing radiation. Photon-Counting CT technology helps reduce radiation exposure compared with many conventional CT systems while maintaining exceptional image quality.
Allergic reaction to iodinated contrast dye, although serious reactions are rare.
Temporary discomfort or bruising at the IV insertion site.
Contrast-induced kidney problems in patients with severe kidney disease, which is why your doctor may assess your kidney function before the examination.

Your healthcare team carefully evaluates the benefits and risks before recommending the examination.

Results and Follow-Up

After the examination, the images are carefully analyzed by a radiologist with expertise in cardiovascular imaging.

The results are then shared with your referring physician or cardiologist, who will explain the findings and discuss the most appropriate treatment plan based on your condition.

When Will I Receive My Results?

Preliminary findings may be available shortly after the examination.

A comprehensive radiology report is generally available within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the complexity of the examination.

Your doctor will review the results with you during your follow-up appointment.

If the Results Are Abnormal, What Are the Next Steps?

If your Cardiac CT identifies an abnormality, the next steps will depend on the findings.

Your doctor may recommend:

Lifestyle modifications to reduce cardiovascular risk.
Medications to manage cholesterol, blood pressure, or heart disease.
Additional cardiac imaging or functional testing.
Stress testing to evaluate blood flow to the heart.
Coronary angiography if significant coronary artery narrowing is suspected.
Consultation with an interventional cardiologist or cardiac surgeon when appropriate.

Many patients can begin treatment based on Cardiac CT findings without requiring invasive diagnostic procedures.

When Should I Call My Doctor?

Contact your doctor promptly if you experience any of the following after your examination:

Rash, itching, or swelling after receiving contrast dye.
Difficulty breathing.
Persistent nausea or vomiting.
Fever or signs of infection at the IV insertion site.
Severe pain, redness, or swelling around the IV site.
Reduced urination if you have underlying kidney disease.
Any new or worsening symptoms that concern you.

Seek emergency medical care immediately if you develop chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or symptoms suggestive of a heart attack.

Why Choose RS Abdi Waluyo for Cardiac CT?

RS Abdi Waluyo combines expert cardiovascular care with one of the most advanced CT imaging technologies available today.

Our Cardiac CT service offers:

Advanced Photon-Counting CT technology for exceptional image clarity.
Lower radiation exposure compared with many conventional CT systems.
High-resolution visualization of coronary arteries, plaques, heart valves, and surrounding structures.
Experienced radiologists and cardiologists specializing in cardiovascular imaging.
Comprehensive heart care, from early diagnosis to advanced treatment planning.
Patient-centered care focused on comfort, safety, and clinical excellence.

With Photon-Counting CT, RS Abdi Waluyo provides more precise cardiac imaging that supports earlier diagnosis, personalized treatment decisions, and better outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disease.