Heart CT Angiogram
Heart CT in Edgbaston, Birmingham
Get clarity about your heart health with a Heart CT at OneMedicine, Edgbaston — led by Professor Francisco Leyva-León, Consultant Cardiologist and Professor of Cardiology at Aston University. We offer coronary calcium scoring and CT coronary angiography (CTCA), with expert pre-assessment and a personalised plan for your next steps.
A Heart CT Angiogram is a quick, comfortable, and non-invasive way to take a detailed look at the blood vessels that supply your heart. It helps detect any narrowing, blockages, or structural changes that could affect how well your heart receives oxygen-rich blood.
This advanced test plays a key role in identifying coronary artery disease (CAD) early and gives you a clear picture of your overall heart health — helping you make informed choices for a healthier future.
What is a Heart CT Angiogram?
A Heart CT Angiogram is a specialised imaging test that uses computed tomography (CT) technology and a special contrast dye to create detailed, 3D images of your heart and its blood vessels. The test helps detect blockages or narrowing in the arteries that could lead to heart disease, heart attacks, or other cardiovascular issues.
This test is particularly valuable for individuals with symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, as well as those with risk factors for heart disease such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease. It is also an excellent tool for evaluating patients who may not yet have symptoms but are at risk of developing coronary artery disease.
Cost
- Cardiac CT angiogram
( +/- Calcium score)
Why is a Heart CT Angiogram important?
- Detecting coronary artery disease: The primary use of a Heart CT Angiogram is to check for blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries. If blood flow to the heart muscle is restricted by plaque buildup, this can lead to conditions such as angina (chest pain) or, in more severe cases, a heart attack. The CT angiogram helps identify these issues early, allowing for prompt treatment.
- Assessing heart health: The Heart CT Angiogram provides a clear view of your heart’s structure and the condition of its blood vessels, enabling Dr Ibrar Ahmed to evaluate overall heart function. The test can help identify other structural abnormalities, such as aneurysms, and assess the effectiveness of previously placed stents or bypass grafts.
- Guiding treatment plans: If blockages or narrowing are detected, the information obtained from the CT Angiogram helps guide treatment decisions. Depending on the severity of the issue, Dr Ahmed may recommend medication, lifestyle changes, or further interventions such as angioplasty or bypass surgery. The detailed imaging ensures that the most effective treatment options are chosen.
Coronary calcium scoring: an additional assessment
During a Heart CT Angiogram, we can also additionally perform a Coronary Calcium Score, which measures the amount of calcium buildup in your coronary arteries. This score provides additional information about your risk for atherosclerosis—a condition where plaque (including calcium) builds up in the artery walls, narrowing the arteries and increasing your risk of heart disease.
- How coronary calcium scoring works: During the CT scan, the machine also detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. The amount of calcium is then given a score. A higher score indicates more plaque buildup, suggesting a higher risk of coronary artery disease.
- Why it’s important: Even if you don’t have symptoms of heart disease, a high coronary calcium score could indicate a significant risk of future heart problems. This information helps Dr Ahmed decide whether you need further testing or early interventions to prevent serious heart issues down the road.
What the results mean for you
- Low calcium score: A low score suggests minimal plaque buildup and a lower risk of heart disease. In this case, Dr. Ahmed may recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle to keep your heart in good condition.
- High calcium score: A high score indicates a greater amount of plaque buildup, which increases your risk of heart disease. Based on these results, Dr Ahmed may recommend additional treatments, further tests, or lifestyle changes to lower your risk and manage your heart health more effectively.
Experts in cardiovascular health
At OneMedicine, your Heart CT Angiogram is conducted under the expert guidance of Dr Ibrar Ahmed, a cardiovascular specialist with a PhD in Cardiovascular Medicine. Dr Ahmed’s in-depth knowledge and experience in diagnosing and managing heart conditions ensure that your test results are reviewed and interpreted with the highest level of clinical expertise.
Working in partnership with Professor Francisco Leyva-León, Consultant Cardiologist and Professor of Cardiology, who is a leading expert in Cardiac CT imaging, we provide a seamless, joined-up approach between primary and specialist care. This collaboration ensures that every scan is not only performed to the highest diagnostic standard, but also translated into clear, practical guidance for your ongoing heart health and prevention plan.
Get seen Today
A Cardiac CT Angiogram provides valuable insights into the health of your heart and arteries, helping detect coronary artery disease and assess your risk for heart problems. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications and improve your long-term heart health.
Schedule your Cardiac CT Angiogram with Dr Ibrar Ahmed today and take a proactive step towards safeguarding your heart.
