CT Coronary Angiography
TESTS
CT Coronary Angiography
A CT coronary angiography (CTCA) is a non-invasive diagnostic test that is used by cardiologists and physicians to image the arteries supplying blood to the heart. CTCA is a highly sensitive tool and can identify the very early stages of coronary heart disease, allowing tailored medical care for individuals at a high risk of heart attacks. CTCA can also be used to identify severe narrowings in the arteries supplying blood to the heart and may be used to assess for structural problems within the heart and major blood vessels.
WHAT TO BRING
- Original request form for the test (if provided by your referring doctor)
- Any concession cards, including valid Medicare and any private health care cards
- Any results from recent blood tests
- List of current medications
PREPARATION FOR MRI
- Continue to take any heart rate lower medication prescribed to you by your doctor prior to the CTCA
- Please do not eat or drink anything for 2 hours prior to the scan
- If you are taking metformin, you may have to discontinue this prior to your scan depending on your kidney function. Please ask your referring doctor for advice if you are in doubt
- Please inform our staff if you have an allergy to X-ray contrast (dye)
WHAT TO WEAR
Ensure you wear comfortable clothing and a short-sleeved t-shirt or top.
DURATION
The scan itself is very quick, but preparation for the test is paramount to ensure good quality images and this takes time. Be prepared to spend around 1 hour at the test location, although sometimes the test may take longer.
RESULTS
The final results of your CTCA will be sent to your referring doctor within 48 hours of the test being performed.
