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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Coronary CTA Scans

What is a CTA scan?
Why is CTA used?
How do I know if I could benefit from a Coronary CTA Scan?
How long will a CTA scan typically take?
How do I prepare for the CTA scan?
Does the CTA scan require any injections?
How do I find a physician who can order this test for me?

What is a CTA scan?
“CT” stands for computed tomography (tuh-MOG-ruff-ee). CT uses X-rays and a
computer to make a picture of sections of the body. The picture is called a scan. A CT scan shows the body’s organs in greater detail and more clearly than regular X-rays. Specifically, a Coronary CTA scan stands for Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography and will show images of your heart. (top)

Why is CTA used?
CTA can help find problems in your heart and how far disease has spread if disease is present. The scan also may show the effects of treatment and how your body is responding to treatment. CT and CTA scanning can study many parts of the body, such as the brain, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine, arms and legs. (top)

How do I know if I could benefit from a Coronary CTA Scan?
Typically, males and females, 40 to 65 years old with one of the traditional risk factors for heart disease, will be appropriate for this scan. Take our quiz to find out if you may be a good candidate for a Coronary CTA Scan:

Are you a smoker?
Do you have a family history of heart disease?
Do you have high blood pressure/cholesterol?
Do you suffer from unexplained chest pain or shortness of breath?
Do you have diabetes?

Without symptoms, you may still be at risk for heart disease. If you are between 40 and 65 years of age and answered yes to one or more of the above questions, you may be a good candidate for this scan. Ask your doctor if a Coronary CTA scan at North Oaks could benefit you. (top)

How long will a CTA scan typically take?
The scan itself takes only 5-10 minutes; however, our Radiology staff will perform your consultation prior to the exam to insure that you have been properly prepared for the scan. The entire appointment time may be approximately 1 hour. (top)

How do I prepare for the CTA scan?
Ask your physician or North Oaks Radiology staff for instructions regarding any medications you are currently taking. If you have diabetes, be sure to ask your doctor or testing center about taking your routine medicines before scheduling your scan.

Upon scheduling your scan, a North Oaks Radiology staff member will give you instructions regarding eating before the scan. You also may be asked to take medications before checking in for your scan which may prepare you for the exam.

Please arrive at North Oaks Medical Center prepared with the following items:

• A prescription slip or order form from your physician
• Insurance forms, referrals or both
• A list of medications you are currently taking, including prescriptions and
• over-the-counter drugs
• A list of allergies to food, latex, or medicines (top)

Does the CTA scan require any injections?
Yes. You will receive an IV-enhancing agent, known as “contrast," which enables the technologist to view your veins and arteries and produce the images of your heart during the scan. Be sure to tell your doctor or the CT technologist if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to a contrast-enhancing agent. (top)

How do I find a physician who can order this test for me?
Your Cardiologist or Primary Care Provider or “Family Doctor” can order a Coronary CTA scan for you if you are determined a good candidate for this test. (top)

For more information on heart disease risk factors or heart health services at North Oaks, visit the Heart Health Center’s web page. For information on North Oaks Radiology Services, visit Radiology’s web page.

If you need help finding a physician, please call the North Oaks Physician Services Hotline at (985) 230-DOCS [3627] or click here to find a physician online. For more information on Coronary CTA, call the Marketing/Business Development Department at (985) 230-6647 or e-mail us at coronarycta@northoaks.org.