Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA)

Typically a Calcium Scoring exam is performed at no additional charge, serving as the pre-contrast portion of the Coronary CTA exam. Once your “score” has been determined, you will be given 80-120 cc of contrast via IV. The contrast will be visible on the images, providing physicians with more detailed information about your coronary arteries. The Coronary CTA exam takes only 15 minutes, and you’ll stay an additional 15-30 minutes afterward for observation.

Do not eat or drink anything for four hours before your appointment. No caffeine or nicotine after midnight on the day of the exam. You will be given a medication to lower your heart rate for the exam, which you will take orally three hours prior to your appointment. You will also take an oral nitroglycerin tablet just before the exam to prevent chest pain.

One of our subspecialized radiologists will study the scan and send a report to your physician, including your cardiac score. Your doctor will contact you to discuss the results. He or she may recommend a treatment plan, which could include diet and lifestyle changes, medication and/or further testing.

Atrium SP ED
Carolinas Medical Center
CMC - Mercy
Atrium Health Pineville
Atrium Health University City
Carolinas Healthcare System - NorthEast
Carolinas Healthcare System - NorthEast Outpatient Imaging - Copperfield

This procedure requires a physician referral. Typically your referring physician will schedule an appointment for you. If you have been asked to schedule the appointment yourself, please have your physician's order and any pre-authorization information required by your insurance or health plan provider in hand, and call 704-442-4390.

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. For questions regarding insurance coverage, and/or billing please call 704-362-7020.