CT Coronary Angiogram in Hyderabad

A CT coronary angiogram at Focus Diagnostics costs ₹11,000. The price is shown on the test page when you book. If your doctor has also asked for a coronary calcium score, that is a separate scan (₹5,500).

Yes. A CT coronary angiogram uses X-rays and an iodine contrast injection, so it is done when a doctor (usually a cardiologist or physician) has decided it is the right test for you. Please bring the prescription and any previous heart reports, such as ECG, echo or treadmill test results.

No. A regular (catheter or invasive) angiogram is done in a cardiac cath lab: a thin tube is passed through an artery in the wrist or groin up to the heart. A CT coronary angiogram takes pictures of the same arteries from outside the body, with contrast given through a drip in the arm. It cannot be used to place a stent; if a significant blockage is found, your doctor may advise a catheter angiogram.

Do not eat for about 4 hours before the scan because contrast is used. Tell the team if you have a contrast or iodine allergy, diabetes, kidney problems or asthma, or if you might be pregnant. You may be asked to avoid tea, coffee and other caffeine on the day, since a slower heart rate gives clearer pictures. Continue your regular medicines unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

The scan itself lasts only a few seconds while you hold your breath, but plan for one to two hours at the centre. That time covers checking your details, placing a drip, steadying your heart rate if needed, the scan, and a short period of observation afterwards.

The heart is moving throughout the scan. A steady, slower heart rate gives sharper images of the small coronary arteries. If your heart rate is fast, you may be given a medicine to slow it before the scan, and sometimes a tablet or spray under the tongue to widen the coronary arteries. The radiology team will explain this on the day.

If you were given medicine to slow your heart rate, it is sensible to have someone accompany you and not to drive straight after the test. Most people return to normal activity the same day. Drinking plenty of water afterwards helps clear the contrast, unless your doctor has restricted your fluids.

The report is usually ready in about 4 hours. It is prepared by a radiologist and can be downloaded from the Download Report page on our website. Your doctor will explain the findings and the next steps.

It is a widely used test, but like any CT it uses ionising radiation, and the iodine contrast can rarely cause an allergic reaction or affect the kidneys in people whose kidney function is already reduced. That is why it is done only when a doctor judges the benefit outweighs these risks, and why kidney function, allergies and pregnancy are checked before the scan.

Sometimes. Bypass grafts can usually be assessed well. Metal stents can make the inside of the artery harder to see, so whether CT is suitable depends on the stent size and your situation. Your cardiologist will decide which test is most useful.