Before your CTCA scan your radiographer will explain the procedure to you, and perform a set of observations, which includes recording your blood pressure and heart rate.

Depending on your heart rate and blood pressure, a Radiologist may prescribe some beta blocking medication to reduce your heart rate. These medications require 45-60 minutes to take effect, and most patients won’t notice any difference. 

After the pre-examination assessment is complete and your heart rate is within the acceptable scanning range, you may be asked to change into a gown. A radiographer will then position you on the scanning bed and connect you to a heart monitor via several ECG leads placed on your chest. A cannula will then be inserted into one of the veins in your arm. 

Immediately prior to the scan, glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) in the form of a spray will be administered under your tongue. This causes your coronary arteries to dilate, which makes it easier to accurately assess the heart vessels on your scan. The GTN may give some people a mild headache, but this generally only lasts for 10-20 mins. 

During the scan, CT contrast will be injected through your cannula. As the contrast circulates through your body, you may notice a warm sensation and/or a metallic taste or smell in your mouth or throat. This is normal and generally only lasts for about 30 seconds. You will also be asked to hold your breath several times during the scan for periods of up to 15 seconds.  

The scan itself does not take very long, however, you should allow about two hours for your appointment, as the process includes a pre-examination assessment, administration of beta-blockers if required, the CT scan itself, and post-procedure care. 

It is essential that you have a low and steady heart rate for your CTCA scan, so please avoid the following before your scan: 

• Products containing caffeine, including tea, coffee, decaf tea and coffee products, soft drinks, and chocolate, for 24 hours
• Viagra, Cialis, or any medication used for erectile dysfunction for 72 hours
• Exercise on the day of your scan  

You will need to fast for two hours before your examination, but please continue to drink water to ensure you are well-hydrated. You can continue to take any routine medications (except those for erectile dysfunction) on the day of the scan.

Please wear loose clothing to your appointment, preferably with no metal. In some instances, you may be required to wear a gown, as some materials and embellishments can show up on the scan.

You may be asked to remove objects like watches or jewellery for your scan, so consider leaving any valuables at home.

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient. 

CTCA examinations are performed using the lowest radiation dose possible, to produce the required diagnostic images. The risks from this small amount of radiation are very low and health experts feel that the benefits of the diagnostic information obtained will outweigh any potential risks. 

Another risk associated with a CTCA scan is having an allergic reaction to either the CT Contrast or Beta blocking medication. Reactions to these medications are rare, and can range from very mild to moderate and in very rare cases to a severe reaction requiring emergency medical treatment. 

If you have any concerns about the risks associated with this scan, please contact your referring practitioner. 

A CTCA scan does not require any specific after care. After your appointment, you may continue with normal daily activities, unless advised otherwise by your referring practitioner. 

Please contact your preferred clinic for all quotes and enquiries. Our friendly customer service team can advise you of any costs involved with your CTCA scan, including any out-of-pocket costs. 

We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the time of your scan, or have another adult accompany you to the appointment to care for your child.

Children are not allowed in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area. 

Our staff need to maintain full focus during your examination to ensure the best possible care.