Which test next

[Gasry]

A carotid MRI showed that I have about 50 percent blockage.  A stress test revealed an abnormal EKG, with about a 4mm drop in the curve between the pulses.  I have a history of high cholesterol and am currently on a cholesterol reducing medication as well as a medication to reduce blood pressure.  I was offered several options as the next step and opted for a CT angiogram.  Given my other results, should I have gone directly to the more conventional angiogram in spite of the slightly greater risk?  If there is a good chance that I will need an angiogram anyway, am I not putting myself at risk by going through another step?  Is there a good publication for lay people that I can read that might shed more light on this question?
Thanks

[simon59]

I would indeed go directly to the Angiogram - Jon was right, you will probably finish up
having one anyway.  Better to avoid the high radiation from the CT if possible. Of course 50% blockage in regular arteries are usually not given Stents.  Same as they usually wait to do surgery on the Carotids until the blockage is at least 70% I think it is. .  But the Angiogram can find out for sure the condition of all other arteries - a good way to go,
Simon59

[erijon]

If you are experiencing symptoms of heart disease like chest pain and pressure, shortness of breath etc.. then I would go straight to the angiogram as that's what you'll need to do next even if your CT comes back clean and you are still having symptoms, it's the only way to rule out your heart as the cause. If your CT comes back showing the possibility of blockages, then you'll need an angiogram to determine the extent and place stents if necessary.

Good luck,

Jon