CT scanning of the heart: how to prepare

Preparation matters more for this scan than for most. Following it gives the clearest possible images.

Before you come

Our technology allows CT scanning of the heart using high speed, very high detail X-ray images. To achieve the best possible quality images, it is important that you follow the preparation instructions below.

Please allow yourself plenty of time to arrive. It may be wise for someone to bring you, so that you can be dropped off at the entrance in case parking proves difficult.

If you use a GTN spray, please bring it with you.

If you are unable to attend, please tell us as soon as possible so we can offer your appointment to another patient, and we will arrange another appointment for you.

Your medication

Continue to take all your medications as normal.
If you normally take beta-blockers (for example bisoprolol, atenolol or metoprolol) or other drugs that slow your heart rate (for example verapamil, diltiazem or ivabradine), it is especially important to take these as normal on the morning of your scan.

For 48 hours before your appointment

Do not take sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis).

For 24 hours before your appointment

Do not consume anything containing caffeine. That includes all foods containing chocolate, and all tea, coffee, cola and energy drinks, including decaffeinated products.
Please check all medication for caffeine, especially cough remedies and paracetamol-based products.

For 4 hours before your appointment

This will help stabilise your heart rate and produce the best quality images.

Do not smoke.
Light meal only.
Drink only water.
Do not do any vigorous exercise.

What to expect once you arrive

You may be in the department for up to an hour.
On arrival, your details will be checked, the procedure will be explained to you and you will be weighed. We will ask about any allergies you may have and any medications you are taking.
You will be asked to undress from the waist up and put on an examination gown.
A cannula (a small plastic tube) will be inserted into a vein in your arm, as the scan involves an intravenous injection of a contrast agent and a drug to steady your heart rate.
Once you are lying on the scanning couch, we will place ECG electrodes on your chest so we can see your heart rhythm.
The scan involves holding your breath several times for approximately 10 seconds. It may be useful to practise this at home.
During the scan you will have an injection of contrast agent. You may feel heat in the abdomen and groin. This is normal and passes very quickly.
Once the scan has finished, we will ask you to get dressed and then wait for 20 minutes before we remove the cannula from your arm.

Contacting us

If you need any more information, please call the imaging facility on 01792 606 420, or the number on your appointment letter.

This guide is the imaging facility's own patient information. If anything here differs from your appointment letter, follow the letter and call us if you are unsure.

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