Non-Contrast Cardiac Computed Tomography for Heart Chamber, Coronary Artery, and Cardiovascular Structure Evaluation
This radiation-based X-ray computed tomography exam captures high-resolution cross-sectional images of the full cardiovascular system, including the four heart chambers, atrioventricular and semilunar valves, native coronary arteries, adjacent thoracic veins, and regional mediastinal lymphatic vessels. It is clinically used to quantify coronary artery calcium burden for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk stratification, assess for structural cardiac abnormalities such as valvular calcification or chamber hypertrophy, and screen for thoracic venous or lymphatic pathology in patients with contraindications to iodinated contrast administration.
This low-radiation, non-contrast cardiac CT evaluates the heart, coronary arteries, cardiac valves, thoracic veins, and mediastinal lymphatic vessels to screen for cardiovascular structural abnormalities and assess coronary artery disease risk without iodinated contrast.
Key facts at a glance
- Modality
- ct
- Body part
- chest · cardiac
- Ionizing radiation
- true
- Radiation dose
- 7
- Duration (min)
- 15
- Pregnancy safe
- false
- Pediatric safe
- true
- Breastfeeding safe
- true
- Claustrophobia risk
- low
- Metal implant safe
- safe
- Sedation
- none
- LOINC
- 79071-5
- SNOMED
- 241540006
- Result turnaround
- 24-48h
- Availability
- elective
- Setting
- outpatient
- Cost tier
- moderate
Understanding CT Scan of heart
Computed Tomography provides detailed visualization of heart. The procedure uses controlled radiation to create precise images with excellent anatomical detail.
Clinical Indications
This evaluation helps detect arterial blockages, identify aneurysms, assess blood flow patterns, and guide vascular interventions.
What to Expect
The procedure typically takes 15 minutes. The examination is painless and non-invasive.
How to read the report
- Results reviewed by board-certified radiologist.
- Report transmitted to referring physician.
What Is This Procedure?
This ct scan evaluates cardiac, specifically heart. Uses controlled radiation to create detailed images.
What Does It Show?
Detailed images of heart and coronary arteries. Part of the cardiovascular system.
Common Uses
This exam is commonly used to detect arterial blockages, evaluate blood flow, identify aneurysms, and assess vascular disease.
What to Expect
The procedure takes approximately 15 minutes.
Severe pain at procedure site
urgentWorsening severe pain with fever or other symptoms. Go to urgent care or ER.
Mild symptoms after procedure
promptMild discomfort or symptoms that don't improve. Contact your doctor.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy