Frequently Asked Questions

1.What is an EBCT Heart Scan?

• Electron Beam Computed Tomography (EBCT) or Heart Scan is a technique for rapid non-invasive scanning of the heart using X-ray technology. It is quick, accurate and painless and the radiation exposure is relatively small - about 10 times less than a normal CT scan of the Thorax.

2. The Scan – what does it involve?

• There is no prior preparation needed for the scan, and patients won’t be required to stop any of their regular medications prior to the scan. The patient will lay on a bed, similar to that of a CT scan machine, and will be asked to hold their breath in two intervals in order for the scanner to take the cross section images. This whole process takes less then 5 minutes. There are no needles or hospital gowns. It is quick, accurate and painless.

3. How long does the whole process take?

• An EBCT heart scan takes minutes to complete and patients know the result within a matter of minutes. If they need to, they can begin treatment immediately, since there is no delay in getting the results.

4. How do I know if I need a scan?

• If you think you may be at risk of heart disease or have had previous cardiac problems then we would recommend a heart scan.

• Risk factors include family history of disease, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and stress.

5. Do I need to be referred by GP?

• No, you can make an appointment directly with us and come for a consultation with one of our specialist cardiologists who will determine which scan will be most beneficial or whether you actually require a scan.

• Other patients prefer to be referred by their GPs. In this case tell your GP you
  are interested in a Heart-Scan and they can get in touch with us directly.

6. Is the scan covered by insurance companies?

• Many of the major companies now cover a Heart-Scan. However not all of them offer the procedure since it is one of the newest technologies to arrive the UK. You should check with as or you insurance company first if you have any doubts.

7. How much does a scan cost?

• See our price list.

8. What other scans are performed in the centre?

• Myocardial Perfusion Imaging and Dual-Source CT Coronary Angiogram are also carried out in the department.

• Myocardial Perfusion Imaging is used to monitor and assess the blood flow around the heart. This is a lengthy procedure, and a small dosage of radiation is used to monitor the blood flow in the coronary arteries. Unlike the Heart-Scan (EBCT), Myocardial Perfusion Imaging can detect any narrowing in the coronary arteries.

• Dual-Source CT Coronary Angiogram, is similar but is far less invasive than the traditional angiogram. It is estimated that up to 30% of coronary angiograms performed in the U.K turn out to be entirely normal studies. By excluding coronary disease in such low risk patients the Dual-Source CT Coronary Angiogram can avoid invasive coronary angiography. It is not an ideal method to identify narrowing inside coronary stents since it is not possible to visualize the interior of stents accurately by CT.

9. I may be interested in having a scan Where can I get more information?

• Please contact us for more information. We can put you in touch with the right member of our team to answer any questions you have. Contact us and we can send you information and even make the booking for you when you require. Contact Us Here.

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