Cardiac CT

Three-dimensional CT imaging of the heart and coronary arteries with contrast enhancement. Detects stenoses, blockages, and structural abnormalities as a non-invasive outpatient alternative to cardiac catheterisation.

Cardiac CT at Radiologie München delivers a comprehensive non-invasive assessment of the coronary arteries using contrast-enhanced computed tomography. The examination maps the coronary tree in three dimensions, identifying narrowing (stenosis), non-calcified and calcified plaques, anomalies, and structural cardiac abnormalities — all without the procedural risk and recovery time associated with invasive catheterisation. The scan is performed at the Rotkreuzklinikum (Nymphenburger Str. 163) and Burgstraße locations. Throughout the examination, the patient is connected to an ECG to monitor heart rate and to synchronise image acquisition with the cardiac cycle. A target heart rate below 70 beats per minute produces optimal image quality; if the patient's resting rate is higher, a beta-blocker may be administered. Nitro spray is given to dilate the coronary arteries just before scanning, improving vessel visualisation. The iodine-based contrast agent is administered intravenously and patients experience a brief, strong sensation of warmth as it circulates — this is normal and passes quickly. The scan itself takes a maximum of twenty minutes, with total time at the practice around 45–60 minutes including preparation and post-examination review. The reporting radiologist assesses both the morphology of coronary plaques and the degree of luminal narrowing, providing a graded stenosis report that guides decisions about medical therapy, further investigation, or intervention. Before the appointment, patients must provide recent blood test results — creatinine (kidney function) and TSH (thyroid) values from within the previous week — since the iodine contrast agent interacts with kidney and thyroid function. Tea, coffee, and alcohol should be avoided before the scan. Male patients taking PDE-5 inhibitors (e.g. Sildenafil) should discontinue these three days prior. Patients on Metformin should consult their physician about a 48-hour pause around the examination. Adequate hydration before and after the scan supports contrast clearance. Booking is via Doctolib or telephone.