CT Coronary Angiography at Radiant Radiology, Gold Coast & Logan
Radiant Radiology provides CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA), a non invasive cardiac CT examination that produces detailed images of the coronary arteries, the vessels supplying blood to the heart muscle.
CTCA uses an injection of iodinated contrast to make the coronary arteries clearly visible, and images are timed to your heartbeat so the arteries can be assessed while the heart is moving. The images are then processed into three dimensional reconstructions that our radiologists review.
CTCA is requested by your GP, cardiologist, or other specialist for a specific clinical reason. Whether it is the right examination for you is a decision for you and your referring doctor.
Have a referral? Contact your nearest Radiant Radiology clinic to discuss your appointment, preparation, and costs.
CTCA and CT Coronary Calcium Score
These are two different examinations and they are frequently confused.
A CT coronary calcium score is a short scan performed without contrast and without an injection. It measures calcified plaque within the artery walls and produces a score.
A CTCA uses an intravenous contrast injection, usually involves medication to steady the heart rate, requires specific preparation, and takes considerably longer. It shows the inside of the coronary arteries, including areas of narrowing, and can demonstrate plaque that is not calcified.
Your referring doctor determines which examination is appropriate. See our CT Coronary Calcium Score page for more detail.
How We Perform Your CTCA
Your CTCA is performed using our multi slice CT technology in a monitored setting, with our team caring for you throughout.
Small adhesive ECG dots are placed on your chest so your heart rhythm can be monitored and the images timed to your heartbeat. A small intravenous cannula is placed in your arm for the contrast injection.
Your heart rate is assessed, and medication may be given to slow and steady it so the images are clear. Medication may also be given to widen the coronary arteries shortly before the scan. Our team explains each step and checks your history before any medication is given.
You then lie on the CT table and are asked to hold your breath for a short period while the images are taken. The scan itself takes only seconds to a few minutes.
Afterwards you are observed for a period before the cannula is removed and you go home. Our radiologists review the images and provide a detailed report to your referring GP or cardiologist.
How Long Your Appointment Takes
Although the scan itself is very quick, a CTCA appointment is considerably longer than a standard CT.
Time is needed for cannulation, heart rate assessment, any medication to take effect, the scan, and a period of observation afterwards. Our team will tell you how long to allow when you book, and will confirm whether you should arrange a driver.
Please plan for a longer visit than a routine scan and allow time in your day accordingly.
Preparing for Your CTCA
Preparation for CTCA is more involved than for most scans, and following it properly affects whether the images are usable. Our team will give you specific instructions when you book, and those instructions take precedence over the general guidance below.
Tell us when booking if you take medication for erectile dysfunction, such as sildenafil, vardenafil, or tadalafil. These interact with a medication commonly used during CTCA and must be stopped in advance. Our team will tell you how long beforehand.
Tell us when booking about any kidney problems, diabetes, asthma, thyroid condition, or previous reaction to contrast dye.
Tell us about any heart condition, or if you take medication for your heart rate or blood pressure.
You will usually be asked to avoid caffeine before your appointment, including coffee, tea, energy drinks, and chocolate, as caffeine raises your heart rate.
Fasting requirements and hydration instructions vary. Our team will confirm what applies to your appointment.
Continue your regular medication unless our team or your doctor tells you otherwise.
Let us know if you are or may be pregnant.
Bring your referral, your Medicare card, and any previous cardiac imaging or reports.
Risks and What to Expect Afterwards
CTCA involves an injection of iodinated contrast. A warm sensation through the body during the injection is common and passes quickly. Reactions to contrast are uncommon, and our team monitors you and is prepared to manage them.
Medication given to slow the heart rate or widen the arteries can cause temporary effects such as a headache, flushing, or feeling lightheaded. Our team will explain what to expect and observe you afterwards.
CTCA uses X-rays, and our protocols are designed to keep the dose as low as reasonably achievable while producing diagnostic images.
Your radiologist and our team will discuss the risks relevant to your examination with you before it begins, and your referring doctor can discuss the benefits and risks for your individual situation.
Why Choose Radiant Radiology for CTCA
Multi slice CT technology with cardiac imaging capability
Monitored, supported appointments with our team caring for you throughout
Detailed reporting to your referring GP or cardiologist
Convenient clinics across the Gold Coast and Logan
Radiant Radiology provides cardiac CT imaging with accuracy and care for patients and referring doctors across the Gold Coast and Logan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a CT coronary angiogram?
A CT coronary angiogram, or CTCA, is a CT scan of the heart performed with an injection of contrast dye. It produces detailed images of the coronary arteries, allowing your radiologist to assess them for narrowing and plaque.
What is the difference between a CTCA and a calcium score?
A calcium score is a short scan performed without contrast that measures calcified plaque and produces a score. A CTCA uses contrast, usually involves heart rate medication, takes longer, and shows the inside of the arteries including narrowing and non calcified plaque. Your referring doctor determines which is appropriate.
Do I need a referral?
Yes. CTCA is performed on referral from your GP, cardiologist, or other specialist, and your referral will specify the clinical reason for the examination.
Is a CTCA covered by Medicare?
Medicare rebates are available for CTCA where specific clinical criteria are met, and eligibility depends on the referral and the reason for the examination. Our team will confirm your position and any out of pocket cost when you book.
How long will I be at the clinic?
Longer than for a routine CT. Although the scan itself takes only minutes, time is needed for cannulation, heart rate preparation, medication, and observation afterwards. Our team will tell you how long to allow when you book.
Why am I asked to avoid caffeine?
Caffeine raises your heart rate, and clear CTCA images depend on a steady, controlled heart rate. Avoiding caffeine beforehand improves the chance of obtaining diagnostic images without needing to repeat the scan.
Is a CTCA the same as a conventional angiogram?
No. A conventional coronary angiogram is an invasive procedure performed in hospital, involving a catheter passed through an artery. A CTCA is performed with a CT scanner and an intravenous injection, without a catheter and without hospital admission. Your referring doctor determines which is appropriate for you.
Can I drive myself home?
This depends on the medication given during your appointment. Our team will tell you when you book whether you should arrange a driver.
When will I get my results?
Your images are reviewed by our radiologists and a detailed report is sent to your referring GP or cardiologist. Please arrange a follow up appointment with your doctor to discuss your results.
CT Coronary Angiography Available Location
CTCA is performed at clinics with cardiac CT capability. Contact us to confirm where your appointment will be, discuss preparation, and check costs:
Ready to book? Appointments are available with a valid referral. Please ask our team about preparation and costs when you book.