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CT coronary angiography (CTCA)

A CT coronary angiography (CTCA) is a ct test of the heart arteries. It shows narrowing in the heart arteries. Typical effective dose 2 to 12 mSv, similar to about 8 months to 4 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).

General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.

What it shows

Narrowing in the heart arteries.

Why it is done

Chest pain evaluation in selected patients.

Preparation

Remove metal objects. If contrast is used you may need to fast for a few hours; tell staff about allergies, kidney disease, diabetes medicines (metformin) or pregnancy.

Radiation & safety

Typical effective dose 2 to 12 mSv, similar to about 8 months to 4 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long it takes

10 to 20 minutes. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.

Sample type

CT

Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.

Related conditions

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Where to get this near you

Care near you

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Common questions

What does a ct coronary angiogram show?
Narrowing in the heart arteries.

Why is a ct coronary angiogram done?
Chest pain evaluation in selected patients.

How do I prepare for a ct coronary angiogram?
Remove metal objects. If contrast is used you may need to fast for a few hours; tell staff about allergies, kidney disease, diabetes medicines (metformin) or pregnancy.

Does a ct coronary angiogram use radiation?
Typical effective dose 2 to 12 mSv, similar to about 8 months to 4 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long does a ct coronary angiogram take?
10 to 20 minutes

Why is CT coronary angiography (CTCA) done?
Chest pain evaluation in selected patients.

How do I prepare for CT coronary angiography (CTCA)?
Remove metal objects. If contrast is used you may need to fast for a few hours; tell staff about allergies, kidney disease, diabetes medicines (metformin) or pregnancy.

Is CT coronary angiography (CTCA) safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 2 to 12 mSv, similar to about 8 months to 4 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.

Sources: SI health summary (own words); decoder imaging pack; RadiologyInfo.org and MedlinePlus as references only

Emergency — call102