Coronary CT scan or computed tomography
A CT scan is a quick and painless imaging test. It provides accurate information about the condition of the coronary arteries and heart.
Coronary heart disease remains a major cause of death in Finland. In 2020, nearly one in five men and one in eight women died from coronary heart disease.
When to have a CT scan
Coronary CT scanning is particularly useful for patients with a low to medium likelihood of coronary artery disease. Risk factors and their impact should be assessed in the consultation with the cardiologist.
Risk factors include:
- high blood pressure
- elevated cholesterol
- diabetes
- mid-body obesity
- low physical activity
- smoking
- inheritance factors
How to get a CT scan
Book an appointment with a cardiologist at the Sydänkeskus. After your cardiologist has examined you in his or her office, you and your cardiologist will decide on a CT scan. You can book an appointment for a CT scan with us at the Sydänkeskus right away. Our service coordinators will help you to make the booking.
Find out more:
We have experienced cardiologists working for you
What kind of an examination is a CT scan
Computed tomography is a fast imaging technique. The total duration of the examination is about half an hour. The scan usually does not require follow-up and does not interfere with normal daily life. For more information, see the guidelines for preparing for a coronary CT scan.
How the examination is done
A CT scan uses X-rays and an iodine-containing contrast agent to reveal the coronary arteries. After the scan, the contrast medium is eliminated from the body in the urine, so you should drink a little more fluid than normal.
For the survey, you will be given
- an elbow cannula for the administration of contrast medium
- ECG electrodes for the chest
During the study
- you will be lying on your back on a mobile research table
- you are as still as possible
- the radiographer has continuous visual and auditory contact with you
- you are given breathing instructions
A calm and steady heartbeat is important for successful imaging. You may be given a medicine to lower your heart rate. In addition, you get a nitro spray in your mouth, which allows the coronary arteries to be seen more clearly in the pictures.
How to get the results of a CT scan
The cardiologist at the Sydänkeskus will interpret the imaging results and discuss further treatment with you based on the results.
Further treatment
If your further treatment requires angiographic procedures, such as coronary angioplasty (also called “balloon stent” or percutaneous coronary intervention, PCI) of the coronary arteries, you can receive the necessary treatment at Sydänkeskus Helsinki.
