A computerised tomography (CT) coronary angiogram is a non-invasive, fast and detailed imaging test. It shows your blood flow through your coronary arteries and looks for any narrowing in them.
Coronary CT angiography uses X-rays and computer technology to produce detailed images of your heart and its blood vessels. It detects both hard calcified plaque and soft noncalcified plaque. Soft plaque may not be detected using standard imaging and can cause heart attacks and other significant health issues.
A CT coronary angiography might be done to diagnose the cause of chest pain or other symptoms. It can help diagnose or rule out heart disease, artery disease and congenital abnormalities.
The differences between a CT angiography and a coronary angiogram are best explained as follows:
A CT angiography scan
A coronary angiogram
Invasive test as it involves puncturing your skin and inserting a catheter inside your body.
Neither a CT coronary angiography nor a coronary angiogram is better. They are used in different situations based on a patient’s health needs and circumstances.
Doctors tend to use CT coronary angiography in patients with a low to moderate risk of coronary artery disease. The doctor is able to diagnose and not treat patients and so it might be preferential if they suspect that medication might be an appropriate treatment rather than a surgical treatment such as a stent. Some patients are not good candidates for a CT coronary angiogram including those who may not fit into the machine, patients with irregular or fast heart rhythms who are unable to take medication to slow their heart rate, and patients who are not able to lie flat, follow voice instructions, or hold their breath for up to 20 seconds.
Coronary angiogram is most often recommended for patients with a high risk of coronary artery disease. It is the most common method for detecting narrowed arteries and coronary artery stenosis that may require surgical treatment such as a stent or bypass surgery. In these cases, it can be used to diagnose and treat a patient in a single session.
The cost of a CT angiography will depend on your Ramsay hospital of choice.
You will receive a formal quotation price for your CT coronary angiography following your consultation with one of our expert cardiologists. This formal quote for a CT angiogram will be valid for 60 days.
Ramsay is recognised by all major medical insurers. A CT angiogram is covered by most medical insurance policies. We advise you to obtain written authorisation from your insurance provider before your CT angiogram.
We have a number of finance options if you are paying for your CT angiography test yourself. We offer interest-free finance so you pay 0% interest, no deposit and benefit from affordable monthly instalments.
CT coronary angiography, also known as cardiac CT scan and computed tomography angiography (CTA) is a quick and painless imaging test to diagnose a variety of heart conditions.
Ramsay Health Care UK is pleased to offer the highly detailed 3D image capturing CT coronary angioplasty.
We offer convenient appointments with experienced and highly skilled cardiologists who will recommend the best cardiology test for your needs. CT coronary angiography at Ramsay Health Care UK can help in the early diagnosis of narrowing coronary arteries or the all-clear for patients who are experiencing symptoms. Rapid treatment can be arranged if required.
Our stringent protocols for infection control will keep you and our staff safe whilst visiting one of our Ramsay hospitals.
Spread the cost of your treatment with fixed, monthly payments over a time period to suit you.
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Use your private medical insurance to fund your treatment through our simple referral process.
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