CT Coronary Angiography is a study investigating the arteries that supply the heart muscle.
Significant technological advancements in recent years have greatly refined treatment courses. Medical Imaging Australia utilises the most advanced CT scanners available. Our scanners adopt the latest software to ensure the lowest radiation dose possible.
Coronary CT angiography involves an injection of X-ray dye and requires ECG leads to be connected to the chest. The CT scanner is utilised to image the heart and assess the status of coronary artery disease.
Preparing for a Coronary CT angiography
Please bring your referral (letter from your practitioner) and your Medicare and/or Pension Healthcare card with you to your appointment. It is important to bring all previous imaging relating to the region being scanned.
Cease all blood pressure medications for the day of the examination. Continue all other medication as normal.
We ask that you bring a driver with you if this is the case.
It is the radiographer’s duty to perform the test and ensure the images are clear for the radiologist (specialist) to interpret them.
Scanning
The contrast is administered halfway through the Coronary CT Angiogram. It is normal to experience a warm flush over the body, a metallic taste in the mouth and a warm sensation in the bladder. These sensations are normal and cease after a couple of minutes.
The procedure takes up to an hour to perform depending on your resting heart rate on arrival. You have no restrictions after having a CT scan and can go about your normal activities. To help eliminate the contrast medium from your body, drink plenty of fluids after the scan.
Results
The examination of the coronary arteries involves a detailed workup of the data obtained from the scan.
Medical Imaging Australia strongly advises that you return to your practitioner, in order for your doctor to discuss your radiology report with you.
If you do have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask our staff.
FAQs
Why do I need to take beta blockers?
It is essential that your heart rate is between 60–65 beats per minute (bpm) to ensure the highest quality images with the lowest possible radiation dose.
What is the radiation dose for a Coronary CT Angiogram?
We follow the ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principle in regards to radiation dose. Our CT scanner uses the latest software to ensure the lowest radiation dose possible and our highly trained radiographers tailor the test to each individual patient.
How long will the Coronary CT Angiogram take?
The procedure can take up to an hour to perform depending on your resting heart rate on arrival. The scan itself takes 10–15 minutes.
Can I eat and drive after a Coronary CT Angiogram?
To help eliminate the contrast medium from your body, drink plenty of fluids after the scan.
Do I have to take my clothes off for my Coronary CT Angiogram?
Will the radiographer performing my scan, be able to tell me the results?
It is the radiographer’s duty to perform the test and ensure the images are clear for the radiologist (specialist) to interpret them.