Our Services
CT Coronary Angiography
At South Coast Radiology, we provide advanced CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA) to assess the health of your heart and coronary arteries quickly, safely and in detail.
This non-invasive test uses modern CT technology and an iodine-based contrast agent to visualise your heart’s blood vessels, helping detect blockages or narrowing that may lead to heart disease.
Our specialist radiologists and cardiac technologists work closely with your doctor or cardiologist to ensure accurate diagnosis, timely results and supporting proactive heart health management.
Cardiac Services
What is a CT Coronary Angiography?
A CT Coronary Angiography is a specialised type of CT scan that creates detailed, three-dimensional images of your coronary arteries (the vessels that supply blood to your heart).
It’s performed using a rapid, multi-slice CT scanner with an intravenous contrast dye to highlight blood flow and identify any plaque build-up or narrowing.
CTCA provides an accurate, non-invasive alternative to traditional angiograms, with no need for hospital admission or catheterisation.
Why might I need a CTCA?
CTCA can detect even early signs of plaque build-up, enabling timely intervention and lifestyle changes to prevent future cardiac events.
Your doctor may refer you for a CTCA if you:
- Have chest pain or shortness of breath suggestive of coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Have abnormal ECG or stress test results
- Have risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or family history of heart disease
- Require assessment before surgery or cardiac procedures
- Are being monitored for known coronary artery disease
About Your Scan
Before your appointment
Our team will give you specific preparation instructions when booking to ensure accurate results.
- You may be asked to avoid caffeine and smoking for 24 hours prior to your appointment, as these can raise your heart rate.
- Continue taking prescribed medications unless advised otherwise.
- You may need to fast for 2–3 hours before your scan.
- Bring your referral, Medicare card, and previous cardiac imaging results (if applicable).
- Please let our staff know if you have asthma, diabetes, thyroid conditions, or allergies to contrast dye.
On the day
- You’ll lie on a CT table while ECG electrodes are attached to your chest to track your heartbeat.
- A small IV line will be inserted into your arm for the contrast injection.
- During the scan, you’ll be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while images are captured.
- The scan takes just 5–10 minutes, and the entire visit usually lasts about 30 minutes.
- In some cases, a short-acting medication (beta-blocker) may be used to help slow your heart rate for clearer images.
- Our technologists will monitor you throughout the scan to ensure your comfort and safety.
After your appointment
- You can usually resume normal activities straight away.
- If you received contrast, drink plenty of water for the next 24 hours to help flush it from your system.
- One of our specialist cardiac radiologists will analyse your images and send a detailed report to your doctor or cardiologist.
- Your doctor will discuss your results and any follow-up or treatment plans as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. CTCA is a well-established and non-invasive imaging test. It uses low-dose radiation and is performed under strict safety protocols.
Yes. An iodine-based contrast dye is used to clearly outline the coronary arteries. Our staff will discuss any allergies or concerns before your scan.
Yes. A referral from your GP or cardiologist is required for this examination and for Medicare rebate eligibility.
The scan itself is only a few minutes, but you should allow around 30–45 minutes for preparation and monitoring.
Your images and report are provided through a secure online system to your doctor or healthcare provider. You will need to make an appointment with your referring doctor for a few days after your appointment to receive your results.
Prior to your scan and to ensure optimal imaging, you may be asked to change into a gown. A change cubicle will be provided to ensure your privacy and you will be asked to bring your belongings will you, carry baskets are provided. You will be asked to place your belongings in a suitable location within the room for the duration of your scan. After your scan, you will be provided with a change cubicle to ensure your privacy. Please ensure you have all your belongings with you prior to leaving the department. If you accidentally leave anything behind, please contact our staff to advise and we will endeavour to locate your belongings and return them to you.
Stay ahead of heart disease
A quick and easy CT Coronary Angiogram at South Coast Radiology will help you understand your heart health.
Contact us or speak with your doctor about booking an appointment today.