CT Cardiac Angiogram
Introduction
A Computed Tomography (CT) scan is a special X-ray examination which uses radiation to acquire and review detailed images of the body. In the case of a CT cardiac angiogram scan, we scan and take images of your heart and coronary arteries. This allows us to see any narrowing or blockage of the arteries around your heart.
Risks and benefits
What are the benefits of a CT cardiac angiogram scan?
A CT cardiac angiogram scan allows us to gain very detailed images of your coronary arteries. These images help us to assess and diagnose coronary artery disease and to advise you of the best treatment for those problems.
Are there any risks from the radiation used in a CT cardiac angiogram scan?
The amount of radiation used to perform a CT cardiac angiogram scan is kept to an absolute minimum. We believe the benefits of having the scan far outweigh any risks from the dose of radiation.
Are there any risks from the contrast medium (X-ray dye) injection?
Yes, reactions to contrast may occur but are very rare. Most adverse effects are mild and can be managed in the X-Ray Department. If you experience a delayed skin rash at home following your scan, please contact us for advice.
A major life-threatening contrast reaction is rare. The incidence of severe reactions with non-ionic agents is 0.04% (1 in 2,500) and very serious reactions is 0.004% (1 in 25,000).
Day of the procedure
- Do not take any caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee, cola etc)
- Take all your usual medications, including any medication that has been prescribed to you to take for the scan itself.
- If you are diabetic, take all your usual medication. There is no need to fast.
- Please bring a list of all your medications when you come to your appointment.
- Give yourself enough time to get to the hospital, taking into account traffic, parking etc.
How is a CT cardiac angiogram carried out?
A member of the CT team will ask you to change into a patient gown and will then discuss the scan with you and ask you a series of questions relating to your medical history. You will have an opportunity to ask any questions.
Your blood pressure and pulse rate will be taken. ECG leads will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rate and a plastic cannula will be inserted into a vein in your arm through which contrast medium (x-ray dye) will be injected for your scan. When the contrast is injected you may experience a warm feeling throughout your body, a metallic taste in your mouth and a sensation that you are actively urinating. These feelings are quite normal.
We will practice the specific breathing instructions for the scan with you as you will be required to hold your breath during the scan for approximately 10-15 seconds.
If your heart is beating quickly you may require an injection of beta blockers to slow your heart rate down. This will be given by a radiologist through the cannula in your arm.
After the scan
Your heart rate and blood pressure will be rechecked. If everything is normal we will remove the cannula and discharge you home.
Results usually take 7-10 working days and will be sent back to the hospital consultant who referred you for the scan.
Are there any alternatives to a CT coronary angiography scan?
Conventional cardiac angiography is also performed to investigate your heart and arteries depending on your symptoms
There are other tests that we can perform on your heart including MRI and echo scans. These tests can provide information on how well your heart is functioning, but cannot provide information on the anatomy of your heart in the way a CT cardiac angiogram scan can.
Contact information
Chelwest and Westminster Hospital
Imaging Department
2nd Floor, Lift Bank D
T: 020 3315 3515
West Middlesex University Hospital
Imaging Department
T: 020 83216577