Angiogram or 64 slice CT ?

[e.r.boy]

I had a nuclear stress test that may have showed an issue in my right coronary artery. I have no angina and excellent exercise ability. My cardio suggested to get an angiogram to see if it really blocked or just a false positive. I'm scared of the angiogram. Isn't the new 64 slice CT scan just as good to detect blockages as the invasive angiogram?

[rockcityaudiouk]

Hi e.r.boy.
I'm actually in a very similar position as you.I'm scared of having a normal old style angiogram too as it does carry risks.Here in the UK we do have the 64 slice CT but it was explained to me that with the old angiography they can actually put "stents" in at the same time should I need them.with the CT if they find something that's fixable then you would still have to under go the old angiogram anyhow.
however,I may just go down the CT route first then I may ask them to "knock me out"if after the CT they decide to put in "stents"but in your case it sounds strongly like maybe a false positive test,however dont forget about the Xray dose from the CT which is a lot!(like 1000 Xrays!)
good luck buddy and please keep me updated.

[ricajay]

The Cleveland Clinic Heart and Vascular Institute website has a lot of good info on the Coronary CTA vs. catheter angiography.