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What does a CT coronary angiogram show?
A CT coronary angiogram (CTCA) is an advanced, non-invasive imaging scan that produces detailed 3D pictures of the coronary arteries - the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart muscle. It allows doctors to see plaque within the artery walls and determine whether it is narrowing the channel through which blood flows.
The scan uses X-rays together with an iodine-based contrast agent (dye), which is injected into a vein in your arm. Sticky ECG patches (electrodes) on your chest allow the scanner to time each image to your heartbeat, so it can capture clear pictures of small arteries that move with every beat.
When CTCA may help
A CTCA is not a routine scan that everyone needs. Your GP or specialist may request one to:
- Investigate symptoms such as stable chest discomfort, when coronary artery disease is a possible cause
- Clarify an uncertain result from another heart test
- Check particular known artery problems
A catheter coronary angiogram is a different test. It is performed in hospital, with a tube (catheter) passed through an artery to the heart. A CTCA takes its images from outside the body, after contrast is injected into a vein in your arm. It can diagnose artery disease, but it cannot place a stent or treat a narrowing.
CTCA and calcium scoring answer different questions
A CT calcium score measures calcified plaque to help estimate future risk in selected people. A CTCA also shows the channel inside the artery and can detect plaque that has not calcified. Your referral should state which scan is needed, as the preparation, use of contrast, and fees are different.
Performed by Scope Radiology
Scope Radiology performs this scan at its Clayton imaging centre and will confirm your scan appointment, preparation instructions, and fees.
Contrast through an arm vein
Helps the coronary arteries show up clearly
Brief breath-holds
Reduce movement while the images are taken
Allow 2-3 hours
Total appointment time, including preparation and observation.
What happens during the appointment
- Health check:
Staff will review your medical history and check your pulse and blood pressure. - Slowing your heart rate:
You may be given a beta-blocker medication to slow your heart rate, as a slower, more regular heartbeat can improve the images. Waiting for this medication to take effect is one reason the appointment takes longer than the scan itself. - Placing the cannula:
A small plastic tube (cannula) will be placed into a vein for the contrast injection. You may also be given a spray under your tongue to widen the coronary arteries. Staff will check whether these medications are suitable for you before using them. - The scan:
You will lie on a table that moves through the scanner's short, circular opening. Sticky ECG patches will stay on your chest. The radiographer will ask you to hold your breath briefly while the images are taken, and can talk with you throughout. - Contrast injection:
As the contrast is injected, you may notice a brief warm feeling or a metallic taste. - Observation:
After the images are taken, you will be observed for a period that depends on the medications you were given.
Important: Please tell staff straight away if you feel unwell, or notice any pain or swelling around the cannula.
If you've been referred for imaging
Your GP or specialist can determine whether imaging would help and refer you for the right scan. Please have your referral ready when confirming your booking so the Scope Radiology team can verify which scan has been requested and confirm your preparation and appointment details.
A Heartscope cardiologist consultation and a Scope Radiology scan are separate appointments. If you are having both, please confirm where each appointment will take place.
Fees
Scope Radiology will confirm the scan fee and any out-of-pocket amount before your visit. Medicare eligibility depends on the scan and your referral. For the latest scan fees, see Scope Radiology's Clayton clinic page. If you also need a Heartscope consultation, it has its own fee.
Understanding your results
Scope Radiology will prepare a detailed report describing your arteries and any plaque or narrowing, and forward it directly to your referring doctor. Your doctor will discuss what the findings mean in the context of your symptoms and other test results. If plaque is found, this may lead to advice about cholesterol treatment and other risk factors, even when it has not caused a major narrowing.
A severe or uncertain narrowing may need a follow-up test to determine whether it limits blood supply. Heavy calcium or movement can make parts of the scan difficult to assess. If a CTCA cannot settle the question on its own, your doctor may still recommend a hospital angiogram.
Preparing for the appointment
This scan is performed by Scope Radiology. Please follow their preparation instructions for your scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CTCA done at Heartscope clinics?
No. This scan is performed by Scope Radiology. Heartscope cardiologists can assess whether you need it, refer you when appropriate, and discuss the results with you.
Why does a short scan need a longer appointment?
Preparation may include checking your kidney results, placing the cannula, and waiting for the heart-rate medication to take effect. Observation afterwards adds more time. Scope Radiology advises allowing two to three hours for the whole visit.
Will I always need a beta-blocker?
No. It depends on your heart rate and rhythm, your health, and what the scan requires. Imaging staff will check whether it is appropriate for you before giving it.
Can a stent be placed during CTCA?
No. A CTCA is an imaging test only. If you need treatment inside an artery, it is performed as a separate hospital procedure.
Is CTCA the same as cardiac MRI?
No. A CTCA uses X-rays and iodine contrast to examine the coronary arteries. A cardiac MRI uses a magnet and radio waves, and is often used to examine the heart muscle, its structure, and how it works. Your doctor will choose whichever test best fits what they need to find out.
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Cardiology clinics across Melbourne.
CT Coronary Angiogram (CTCA)
Ashburton
ashburton
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Boronia
boronia
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 7 Day ECG Holter Monitor | $250, plus a $50 refundable deposit $79.50 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Coolaroo
coolaroo
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Cranbourne
cranbourne
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Dandenong
dandenong
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Keysborough
keysborough
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Lalor
lalor
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
M-City Clayton
clayton
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Melbourne
melbourne
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 7 Day ECG Holter Monitor | $250, plus a $50 refundable deposit $79.50 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Moonee Ponds
moonee-ponds
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Mooroolbark
mooroolbark
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Pakenham
pakenham
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
St Albans
st-albans
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Sunnybank
sunnybank
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $100, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 |
| HeartBug | Privately billed |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Werribee
werribee
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Wheelers Hill
wheelers-hill
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
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