What is CTCA?
A CT Coronary angiography, or CTCA, is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging test that uses a CT scan to create detailed images of the coronary arteries which supply blood to the heart muscle. It is typically performed to identify the presence, extent and severity of coronary plaques or atherosclerosis, which may cause chest pain along with other symptoms and is the cause of most heart attacks.
Envision offers CTCA at our Wembley clinic.
The radiographer performing your CTCA scan will provide you with a full explanation of the procedure on the day. They will perform a set of observations, which include recording your blood pressure and heart rate.
Depending on your heart rate and blood pressure, an Envision Cardiac Radiologist may prescribe some beta-blocking medication to reduce your heart rate. These medications take 45-60 minutes, and most patients won’t notice any difference.
After you have completed the pre-examination assessment and your heart rate is within the acceptable scanning range, you may be asked to change into a gown. A technician will then position you on the table and connect you to a heart monitor via several ECG leads placed on your chest. A cannula will then be inserted into one of your arm veins.
Immediately before the scan, Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) in the form of a spray will be administered under your tongue. This causes your coronary arteries to dilate, making it easier to assess the heart vessels on your scan accurately. The GTN may give some people a mild headache, but this generally only lasts for 10-20 minutes.
During the scan, CT contrast will be injected through your cannula. You may notice a warm sensation and/or a metallic taste or smell in your mouth or throat as the contrast circulates through your body. This is normal and generally only lasts for about 30 seconds. You will also be asked to hold your breath several times during the scan for periods of up to 15 seconds.
The scan itself does not take very long; however, you should allow about 2 hours for your appointment, as the process includes a pre-examination assessment, administration of beta-blockers if required, the CT scan itself, and post-procedure care.
A low and steady heart rate is essential for a CTCA scan, so please avoid the following before your scan:
- Products containing caffeine, including tea, coffee, decaf tea and coffee products, soft drinks, and chocolate, for 24 hours
- Viagra, Cialis, or any medication used for erectile dysfunction for 72 hours
- Exercise on the day of your scan
You will need to fast for 2 hours before your examination, but please continue to drink water to ensure you are well-hydrated. You can continue to take any routine medications (except those for erectile dysfunction) on the day of the scan.
Please wear loose clothing to your appointment, preferably without metal. You may sometimes be given a gown, as some materials and embellishments may appear on an x-ray.
You may be asked to remove objects like watches or jewellery for your scan, so consider leaving any valuables at home.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient.
All CTCA examinations are performed using the lowest radiation dose possible, to produce the required diagnostic images. The risks from this small amount of radiation are very low and health experts feel that the benefits of the diagnostic information obtained will outweigh any potential risks.
Another risk associated with a CTCA scan is having an allergic reaction to either the CT Contrast or Beta blocking mediation. Reactions to these medications are rare and reactions can range from very mild to moderate and in very rare cases to a severe reaction requiring emergency medical treatment.
If you have any concerns about the risks associated with this scan, please contact your referring practitioner.
A CTCA scan does not require any specific after care. After your scan, you may continue with your normal daily activities, unless advised otherwise by your referring practitioner.
The cost of your CTCA scan can depend on several factors. Please contact us and our friendly customer service team will be able to advise you any costs involved, including any out-of-pocket costs.
We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the day of your scan or bringing another adult with you to care for your child.
Children are not allowed in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area.
Our staff need to maintain full focus during your examination to ensure the best possible care.