Tests

CT Coronary Angiogram (CTCA)

A CT coronary angiogram (CTCA) is a heart imaging test that helps me see if plaques have narrowed your coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply your heart. Plaque is made of substances such as fat, cholesterol, and calcium that can build up along the walls of your arteries over time. This build up can reduce, or in some cases block, blood flow to your heart.

During the scan, you will receive an iodine-containing contrast dye through an intravenous (IV) line to ensure the clearest possible images of your heart vessels.

How should I prepare?

  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You will be given a gown for the procedure.
  • Women should inform me and the CT radiographer if there is any possibility of pregnancy.

How is the procedure performed?

The CT scanner is a large, box-like machine with a tunnel in the centre. You will lie on a narrow table that slides into the tunnel.

  • The radiographer will clean three small areas of your chest and place electrodes (small, sticky discs) to monitor your heart rhythm during the scan. Men may need a small area of chest hair shaved for better electrode contact.
  • A nurse will insert an IV line into your arm for the contrast dye.
  • You may be given beta-blocker medication through the IV or orally to slow your heart rate, which improves image quality.
  • Nitroglycerin may be given as a tablet or spray under your tongue to dilate the arteries for better visualization.
  • During the scan, you may be asked to raise your arms above your head and hold your breath for 5–15 seconds. This helps prevent blurred images caused by movement or breathing.

The table will move through the scanner while multiple passes are made to acquire the images. We will carefully review the images to ensure they are clear and complete.

How long does it take?

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Including preparation, the CTCA usually takes about 15 minutes if your heart rate is slow and steady. If your heart rate is fast, beta-blocker medication may be needed to slow it down, which can take longer (up to an hour if given orally, or 20 minutes if given intravenously in multiple doses).

After the scan, your IV line is removed, and you will wait briefly while the radiographer verifies image quality. We will analyse the images and discuss the findings with you at your follow-up appointment.

Why have a CTCA?

A CTCA helps me:

  • Detect narrowing or blockages in the coronary arteries
  • Assess the risk of heart disease
  • Guide decisions about treatment or further tests

The test is non-invasive, painless, and very safe, and allows me to get a detailed view of your coronary arteries without the need for catheterisation.

Client Testimonial

  • Highest level of professionalism and competence, extremely pleasant experience from a top expert in the field. It is a pleasure and genuine luck to be visited. Could not recommend enough. Grazie mille ed a presto!
    Davide Bufalini
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  • Very professional and attentive to his patients. Very knowledgeable and also very friendly.
    Stefano E
    @Stefano E
  • Very friendly and welcoming consultation both by the team which carried out my tests, and his admin staff who dealt with my booking and arrangement. Very thorough set of tests.
    Julian Thompson
    @Julian Thompson
  • Welcoming consultation both by the team which carried out my tests, and his admin staff who dealt with my booking and arrangement. Very thorough set of tests.
    Julian Thompson
    @Julian Thompson

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By taking a proactive approach to your heart health, you can reduce your risk of heart failure and maintain your overall health and well-being. Remember, heart failure is a serious medical condition, but with the right care and support, it is possible to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. 

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