Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) is a noninvasive, diagnostic test intended to detect calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. The amount of coronary calcium in the arteries has been recognized as a powerful predictor of future cardiac events and can be used as a guide for lifestyle modifications and preventive medical therapies to reduce the risk of heart disease.
A CCTA is commonly used to determine whether symptoms of chest pain may be caused by a coronary blockage, particularly in individuals with a family history of cardiac events, diabetes, high blood pressure, smokers, or those with elevated cholesterol.
What to Expect
One of our expert technologists will escort you into the CT scanning room, containing a table and a large, circular device called a gantry. Your technologist will have you lie on the padded table and make sure that you’re comfortable.
You may feel the table move while images are being taken at certain locations of your body. You will be required to lie as still as possible and hold your breath for a short time during the scan in order to produce a clear image. Your technologist will monitor you during the entire exam and will be able to communicate with you through an intercom.
Specific details of your upcoming examination will be explained fully by one of our CT technologist or by your patient care coordinator.
How long will the test last?
The scan takes about 10 minutes to perform, although preparation and image reconstruction time can take up to one hour in total.
After the CCTA
Our radiologists will carefully analyze your CT images and provide a report to you and your physician. Once they have received the report your physician will then discuss the results with you.
Your CT technologist will also provide you with a CD containing the images from your scan when you leave.
4 Comments
do you do Multi slice CT’s scans? or what other non invasive tests are available My husband’s test results thus far are inconclusive… It “might be” a valve problem or “might” be an arterial problem. we’d like to explore all non-invasive alternatives available in B.C first before going for angiogram, etc.
Hi
Could you please email the package info and the cost.
Thanks
I spoke with a woman at your centre about the Cardiac CT Angiography with regards to cost, which she advised was $1800. Our connection was not very good and she was describing all the details of the test and what is included. Could you possibly send me that information via email so that when I speak with my doctor again he will be better informed before he fills out the CAT (CT) Scan Requisiton form from your centre.
Thank you
Darlene Revfem
Hello Darlene,
I’m sorry for the poor phone connection, we will be sending you more information via email.