Radiology
Coronary CT Angiography
Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA)
Recommended as a frontline testing strategy by both the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association, Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) helps doctors visualize blood flow, plaque and blockages within your arteries.
A CCTA exam is a valuable tool for patients with acute or chronic chest pain. This diagnostic test can provide potentially life-saving information without putting patients’ hearts under unnecessary stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
The CCTA scan itself only takes 15 minutes, but patients should plan for a 45-minute appointment. You will lie fully dressed on an exam table. You will be given 75-120ml of contrast via IV. Contrast is a medical dye that is visible on the images, providing physicians with more detailed information about your coronary arteries. During the scan, you will be asked to hold your breath and lie completely still in order to ensure clear images. Once the scan is complete, a radiologist and a cardiologist will review your images. Most patients leave the appointment at this time; however, some will stay for monitoring.
Since you will be positioned within a large, very strong magnet, you must remove all loose metal objects. Doing so is important for your safety and the safety of our staff, and to ensure proper functioning of the equipment. You may be asked to change into a gown or scrubs unless you are wearing clothing that is metal-free. Please let us know ahead of time if any of the following applies to you:
- Cardiac Pacemaker
- Artificial heart valve prosthesis
- Eye Implants or metal ear implants
- Any metal implants activated electronically, magnetically, or mechanically
- Aneurysm clips
- Copper 7 IUD
- Penile implant
- Shrapnel or non-removed bullet
- Pregnancy
- Claustrophobia
- Any metal puncture(s) or fragment(s) in the eye
Do not eat or drink for 4 hours before the exam. Please arrive an hour early in order to register and begin drinking the contrast material.
Results are usually sent to your referring physician 48 hours after your exam.
Visit our locations page for more information. Imaging modalities and associated studies vary by location. Please contact us to schedule your visit at a convenient location near you.
Request an appointment online or contact us at 716-631-2500.
Please check with your insurance plan to confirm that the procedure is covered. You may be responsible for all or a portion of the bill. Payment may be required at the time of service. Please call (716) 631-2500 if you have questions about pricing, insurance coverage, and/or billing before your scheduled appointment.
