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What is a CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA)?

A CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA) is an advanced imaging scan that provides a detailed view of your heart and coronary arteries. Using the latest CT technology, it captures crisp, high-resolution images allowing specialists to assess blood flow and detect any plaque build-up or narrowing of the vessels.

This scan is quick, comfortable, and does not require any invasive procedures, making it one of the most effective first-line tests for investigating coronary artery disease.

Why have a CT Coronary Angiogram (CTCA)?

A CT Coronary Angiogram can help to:

  • Identify plaque build-up in the coronary arteries
  • Detect narrowing or blockages that may increase your risk of a heart attack
  • Provide reassurance if your symptoms are unclear
  • Help guide further care or treatment if needed
     

What are the benefits?

  • Non-invasive (no surgery required)
  • Provides highly detailed images of your heart and blood vessels
  • Helps detect heart disease early
  • Supports accurate diagnosis and treatment planning
  • Quick and generally well tolerated

How do I prepare for a CT Coronary Angiogram  (CTCA)?

Preparation instructions will be provided when you book your appointment, but may include:

  • Avoiding caffeine before your scan
  • Taking medications as instructed (if prescribed to control your heart rate)
  • Wearing comfortable clothing
     

Please let us know if you:

  • Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
  • Have allergies, especially to contrast dye
  • Have kidney problems

What to expect on the day of your scan

Your CT Coronary Angiogram CTCA is a quick and straightforward procedure.

During your scan:

  • You will lie comfortably on a CT scanning table
  • Small sticky patches (electrodes) may be placed on your chest to monitor your heart
  • A contrast dye may be injected into a vein in your arm to improve image quality
  • The scanner will take detailed images of your heart
     

The scan itself usually takes only a short time, and our team will guide you through each step.

 

Are there any risks or side effects?

  • CT Coronary Angiogram (CTCA) uses a low dose of radiation. In some cases, contrast dye is used, which may cause a brief warm sensation.
  • Side effects are uncommon, but please inform us if you have had a reaction to contrast in the past.

After your scan

You can usually return to your normal activities after your scan.

We recommend drinking plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast from your system

A specialist radiologist will review your images and send a report to your referring doctor, who will discuss the results with you.

FAQs

Yes, CTCA is considered safe. It uses a low dose of radiation, and side effects are uncommon.

The scan itself is quick, although your appointment may take longer to allow for preparation.

In most cases, yes. You can return to normal activities unless advised otherwise.

A report will be sent to your referring doctor, who will discuss the results with you.