This page will help to explain what a Computed Tomography Coronary Angiography scan is, how to prepare for it, and what to expect.
What is a CT scan, and what is CTCA?
A Computed Tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of the inside of the body, including internal organs and blood vessels. You have been referred for a Computed Tomography Coronary Angiography (CTCA) scan, a CT scan looking specifically at the heart and its blood vessels (coronary arteries). The results of the scan will help your Doctor/Cardiologist with a diagnosis and decide on any further treatment for you.
You will normally be in the scan room no longer than 20 minutes, and the examination will be fully explained to you.
Who will perform the test?
A Senior Cardiac Radiographer will perform your CT scan, and may be accompanied by a Cardiac Radiologist or Cardiologist.
How do I prepare for the test?
The most important preparation to ensure you have a slow and steady heart rate on the day of your scan is to avoid all stimulants such as coffee, tea, fizzy drinks, chocolate etc.
You will be asked to arrive earlier than your scan time to ensure you are relaxed for your scan.
If you have been prescribed medication to control your heart rate (such as a beta-blocker), it’s very important to continue to take these as prescribed.
If you are prescribed Glyceryl Trinitrate, or GTN (a spray or tablet that you take under your tongue), please bring this with you for your scan.
How is the scan carried out?
We will first undertake a checklist to ensure we are safe to proceed with your scan.
A member of staff will insert a small tube (cannula) into a vein in your arm so that we can administer an X-ray dye (contrast media) during your scan.
When it is time for your scan, you will be taken through by a member of staff and will be asked to lie on a bed that will move you through the scanner.
You will need to remove anything metal from your top half, so we recommend wearing as little metal as possible (jewellery, underwired bra, braces etc.). We will place sticky pads on your chest to monitor your heart rate, and will place a cuff on your arm to monitor your blood pressure.
It may be necessary to give you medication to slow your heart rate for the scan, this may be in addition to any similar medication you may have been prescribed prior to your CT scan.
We may also give a spray or tablet under your tongue (GTN) which helps improve the scan pictures of the blood vessels surrounding your heart. Please keep this under your tongue, and don’t swallow it.
The scan will involve a number of breath holds, as well as injections of X-ray dye.
Following the scan your blood pressure may be checked again, and the cannula removed.
After your scan
How will I get my results?
You will not be given any results on the day of your scan.
You will be sent an appointment to attend the relevant Cardiology clinic, or contacted by letter or telephone with the results.
Anything else?
You may need to return for additional scanning dependent on your heart rate. Don’t be alarmed if you are called back for an additional CT scan.
Can I eat and drink normally after my scan?
Yes, eat and drink normally following your scan. We recommend drinking plenty of fluid for the days following your scan.
Are there side effects or risks from the procedure?
CT scanning involves X-rays. Female patients who are, or might be, pregnant must inform a member of staff in advance. Please call the department on 0113 733 4974 if this applies to you.
The amount of radiation used is more than an ordinary X-ray of the chest or body and is equal to the natural background radiation we receive from the atmosphere over a period of approximately three years. The risk from this radiation dose is low, and the benefits of having your scan outweigh these risks.
You will have an X-ray dye injected through a cannula in a vein as part of your scan. This injection usually causes nothing more than a warm feeling passing around your body. There is a small risk of allergic reaction to this dye, so you will be asked to complete a contrast safety questionnaire on the day of your scan.
We may give you a medication called Metoprolol (beta-blocker) to slow your heart rate. This can make you dizzy or light headed, but the side effects are quite mild and we make sure that you are feeling well before leaving the department.
We may give you a spray or tablet under your tongue, called GTN. This can cause a mild headache which is normal, and will be explained to you by the doctor supervising your scan.
The Radiologist or Cardiologist will explain this to you fully if they feel it necessary to get the best images
Frequently asked questions
What if I have a known allergy to X-ray dye / contrast media / iodine?
Please contact the CT department as soon as possible to ask for advice.
Will the scan be painful?
No, but you may experience some mild discomfort when the cannula is inserted.
Should I stop taking my medication before the scan?
No, continue to take any medication you are on as normal, unless you’ve been advised otherwise. If you have been prescribed heart rate medication such as beta-blockers it is important you take these before your scan as prescribed.
Can I drive home following my scan?
It is recommended that you wait in the department for 15 minutes after your scan. Provided you are feeling well after this time you may drive home.
What if I require hospital transport or a translator?
If you require hospital transport to get to your appointment, and this hasn’t already been arranged, please contact the Yorkshire Ambulance Service on 0330 678 4000.
In order to get the best scan pictures possible, it is important that you fully understand the instructions by the staff undertaking your scan. If you require assistance translating for hospital services, please contact the department promptly so that an interpreter can be booked for your upcoming scan appointment.
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