Cardiac computed tomography (CT) is an imaging process that uses X-rays to show details of the arteries and veins of the heart. The images are used to determine whether plaque or calcium deposits are present in your blood vessels and whether they are causing a blockage.
Details
The CT scanner has a large opening that a flat platform or table moves through. Some people refer to this opening as the “donut hole.” The patient lies on the table while undergoing a scan. When the machine is turned on, an X-ray tube inside the donut-shaped part of the machine spins rapidly around and the patient while the table moves through it. X-rays pass though the patient at different angles and strike specialized detectors. The images captured during the scan produce detailed cross-sectional views, or three-dimensional views, of the heart and blood vessels in a short amount of time.
Description
A nurse, medical radiation technologist, or doctor will explain the test and, if necessary, have you sign an informed consent form. This form may be required before the scan can be performed. This is a good time for you to ask any additional questions you may have.
A low heart rate is necessary to obtain high quality images. The nurse or technologist will perform an electrocardiogram to evaluate your heart rate. If required, the nurse may administer an oral dose of beta blockers to slow down your heart rate.
You will be brought into the scanner room and asked to lie on the table.
The table will slowly slide through the scanner. You will be asked to lie very still during this time to ensure that the resulting images are clear.
You will be asked to hold your breath periodically throughout the scan. The technologist in the control room will be able to speak to you, hear you, and observe you at all times.
The images will be reviewed at by a radiologist (a doctor that specializes in reading medical images) or cardiologist. A report will be sent to the doctor(s) involved in your care.
Patient instructions
When Booking Your Appointment
Please inform us if you have a contrast-dye allergy and ensure that you can provide your pharmacy information. If you are allergic, you will be treated with prednisone prior to the test and will receive more on the day of the test.
Please inform us if you are claustrophobic or discuss this with your physician.
Before Your Test
For 48 hours prior to your test: Stop the following drugs if you take them: Viagra, Cialis and Levitra.
On the Day of Your Test
For six hours prior to your test: Do not consume anything with caffeine.
You can have breakfast and/or lunch. Please drink water prior to your appointment.
Take your other usual medications unless directed by your doctor. Bring all of your medications with you in the original bottles.
After Your Test
Do not take Metformin on the day after your test.
Otherwise, there are no restrictions after the cardiac CT.
Additional info
When you come to the Heart Institute, please check in with central registration in the front lobby. Then proceed to the S-Level and wait in the waiting room for your name to be called.
The cardiac CT takes anywhere from one to three hours to complete.
If you have any questions prior to your cardiac CT, please call 613-696-7066, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Touring instructions: Click and drag your mouse anywhere in the picture to move about the room. On mobile devices, drag your finger to pan the scene and pinch to zoom in or out. By clicking or tapping the lowercase "i" hotspots, you will learn about the equipment in the room and how it is used.
