CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA)

Overview: CTCA

What is a CTCA Test?

A Coronary CT Angiography (CTCA) is a specialised heart imaging test that helps doctors examine the arteries that supply blood to your heart. By using advanced CT scanning technology, a CTCA provides highly detailed images of the coronary arteries, allowing doctors to identify any blockages or narrowing that could lead to heart problems, such as coronary artery disease (CAD).

Unlike traditional angiograms, CTCA is non-invasive, meaning it doesn’t require inserting a catheter into the heart, making it a popular diagnostic tool for those seeking to understand their heart health without the risks associated with more invasive procedures.

Why is a CTCA conducted?

CTCA is typically recommended if your doctor suspects that you may have coronary artery disease or if you're experiencing symptoms like chest pain (angina) or shortness of breath. It's often part of a broader preventive health strategy to assess cardiovascular risk, especially for those with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, or a family history of heart disease.

What is the CTCA designed to show you?

The CTCA provides clear and precise images of your coronary arteries, highlighting any blockages, narrowing, or calcifications that could impair blood flow to your heart. It’s highly effective at detecting coronary artery disease, even in its early stages. This information helps in the early diagnosis and treatment of conditions that, if left unchecked, could lead to heart attacks or other serious complications.

How much does the CTCA usually cost?

The cost of a CTCA in Australia can vary depending on where you get the test done. Typically, it ranges from $500 to $2,000, but private health insurance may cover part of the expense. At Everlab, we offer CTCA as an add-on alongside our comprehensive testing regime for $1,499 which includes a consultation to walk through the results and outline risk reducing interventions

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Getting a CTCA

What should I do to prepare for my CTCA?

Preparing for a CTCA is relatively simple. You’ll likely be advised to avoid caffeine for 24 hours before the test and to fast for a few hours before the procedure. Certain medications may need to be paused, but your doctor will provide specific guidance tailored to your health needs.
You’ll also be given instructions on drinking plenty of water before the scan to ensure proper hydration, which helps with contrast dye administration and image clarity.

What’s the procedure for doing a CTCA?

On the day of your CTCA, you'll first be given a contrast dye intravenously. This dye helps to highlight your blood vessels during the scan, making it easier to identify any abnormalities. Once the dye has been administered, you'll lie down on the CT scan table, and the machine will begin scanning your chest.
The CT machine rotates around your body, taking multiple X-ray images that are then compiled into a 3D image of your heart and arteries. The process is painless and usually takes less than 30 minutes.

How long does a CTCA go for?

The actual scan time for a CTCA is typically around 10 to 15 minutes, but the entire procedure, including preparation, may take around an hour. This includes the time needed for inserting the IV for contrast dye and any pre-scan instructions.

Does the CTCA hurt?

No, the CTCA is a non-invasive and painless procedure. You may feel a slight sting when the IV contrast dye is administered, but this sensation fades quickly. Some people report a warm or flushed feeling during the injection, but it’s harmless and passes within minutes.

Your CTCA Results

How long does it usually take to get your results?

Typically, results from a CTCA are available within 24 to 48 hours. Your results will be reviewed by a radiologist and your doctor, who will explain what the images reveal about your coronary arteries.

What do Everlab results look like?

At Everlab, we provide comprehensive and clear results from your CTCA, presented in a way that’s easy to understand, even if you don’t have a medical background. Our team of experts will walk you through the findings, highlighting any areas of concern and what steps, if any, you should take next to maintain or improve your cardiovascular health.

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Do I Need to Send my results to Everlab?

As with blood tests, our team will be able to pull your results, review them, and interpret them before your next consult with us.

What do the results mean?

Your CTCA results will reveal whether there are any blockages or narrowing in your coronary arteries. If no blockages are found, your heart health is in a good place, though lifestyle changes or medication may still be recommended based on other risk factors. If blockages or narrowing are detected, your doctor will discuss treatment options, which could range from lifestyle modifications and medication to more interventional procedures if necessary.

What should you do if you get an abnormal result?

If your CTCA results show an abnormality, it’s important not to panic. Many people with early-stage coronary artery disease manage their condition effectively through a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. Everlab’s preventive health team will work closely with you to develop a tailored plan that suits your needs, helping you stay on top of your heart health.

Risks & Side Effects of a CTCA

What are the risks of getting a CTCA?

While a CTCA is generally safe, it does involve exposure to radiation. The radiation dose is relatively low and is considered safe for most people, but if you’re pregnant or have had multiple radiation-based tests, it's important to discuss this with your doctor.
Some individuals may also experience mild allergic reactions to the contrast dye used during the test, but this is rare and typically managed with antihistamines. If you are anaphylactic, the allergic reaction can be more severe and it's important to discuss this with your doctor.

What happens if you are prone to getting faint from tests?

If you tend to feel faint or anxious about medical procedures, let the team at Everlab know. We can provide additional support, such as offering reassurance or allowing more time for you to relax before the test. If necessary, we can also provide medications to help you feel calm during the procedure.

What are the aftercare recommendations for a CTCA?

After a CTCA, most people can resume their regular activities immediately. However, it’s important to stay well-hydrated to help flush the contrast dye from your system. If you experience any side effects like dizziness or nausea, rest until you feel better and contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist.

What Else Do I Need to Understand?

Are the results of a CTCA accurate?

CTCA is considered highly accurate for detecting blockages and narrowing in the coronary arteries. However, it’s not a complete replacement for other diagnostic tests, like an angiogram, especially in high-risk cases. Your healthcare provider will discuss whether any follow-up tests are necessary.

Can this indicate whether you have heart disease?

Yes, a CTCA can reveal the presence of coronary artery disease, a major type of heart disease. Early detection through tests like CTCA can significantly improve outcomes by enabling early intervention, whether through medication, lifestyle changes, or, in some cases, surgery.