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Coronary Artery CT Scan

A coronary artery CT scan is a non-invasive investigative procedure that can be used to diagnose coronary artery disease without the need for a more invasive angiogram or other tests.

Doctors use a coronary artery CT to obtain detailed images of the coronary arteries that supply the heart muscle. This can help to determine whether or not the patient’s chest pains and other symptoms are due to heart problems.

You may need a coronary artery CT scan if you are experiencing chest pains or have suspected angina. The coronary arteries can become narrowed causing pain, particularly when exercising as the heart needs more oxygen when it is working hard. Narrowed arteries limit the supply of blood to the heart and this can result in angina.

Berkshire Imaging carries out coronary artery CT scans at Spire Dunedin Hospital using a state of the art scanner. Prior to the scan, we may give you an injection of a short-acting beta blocker to slow your heart rate, as the optimum number of beats per minute for us to obtain clear images is 60.

We will inject contrast dye into a vein in your arm and you will be asked to hold your breath for around 12 seconds while we perform the scan. We will also assess your calcium score, which is the amount of calcification in the coronary arteries. This can be a marker of future cardiac problems and will indicate if you need to take preventative measures, such as taking a regular dose of aspirin or statins.

Coronary artery CT scans are very safe and avoid the complications that can occur with more invasive angiograms. However, as with conventional angiograms, the use of contrast dye can sometimes cause an allergic reaction and may also cause problems with people who have kidney impairment.

There is a small risk associated with the use of radiation during the CT scan. However, advanced techniques mean this is kept to a minimum and the benefits of identifying the potentially life-threatening problems of narrowed coronary arteries are believed to outweigh any small amount of risk.

Coronary artery CT scans are used to diagnose narrowing of the coronary arteries which can lead to angina, stroke and heart attack. Once diagnosed, it is possible to undergo preventative treatment, such as having a stent fitted, or to take aspirin or statins to avoid future problems.

Why choose Berkshire Imaging?

We are one of the largest private radiology groups in Berkshire, providing imaging for patients across the county. We also provide interventional radiology procedures for patients in Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire, Bucks and London. We are leaders in medical imaging and image guided treatments. As a result we use cutting edge technologies to diagnose and treat many different and often complex conditions.

When you are concerned about your health, you want a doctor to see and treat you as quickly as possible. With Berkshire Imaging you will receive a prompt and accurate diagnosis. This can help ensure better outcomes if you need treatment or put your mind at ease if you don’t.

Where Are You Based?

We provide imaging for patients right across Berkshire. From Newbury and Thatcham in the West along the M4 corridor to Reading, Bracknell and Wokingham and as far as Maidenhead and Slough, we have helped hundreds of patients in Berkshire. Our strong relationships with all the major private hospitals across Berkshire enable us to offer rapid access to private scans in several locations.

Contact Us

If you have any questions our friendly patient care team will be happy to help. Contact us by calling 0118 338 2500 or emailing info@berkshireimaging.co.uk for more details about this procedure.

 

Frequently asked questions – Coronary Artery CT scans

A coronary artery CT scan is very quick and you will normally only spend a few minutes in the scanner itself.

We offer a broad range of treatments at Berkshire Imaging, at a number of different locations. For this reason the price will vary. Please call 0118 338 2500 or email info@berkshireimaging.co.uk for an accurate price. You can also get in touch via our contact page. You can read more information relating to payments and insurance on our payment information page.

We will send your results promptly to your referring clinician. They will then get in touch to discuss them with you.