Cardiac CT Scan Prices UK
Cardiac CT scans capture detailed 3D images of your heart and coronary arteries using X-rays. They help detect plaque build-up, calcium scores, congenital anomalies, and coronary artery disease risk. Private centres deliver rapid bookings (often within a week), provide consultant cardiologist reports, και coordinate follow-up treatment.
Clinics such as OneWelbeck Heart Health, LycaHealth Canary Wharf, and HCA Healthcare UK offer calcium scoring and coronary CT angiography (CTA). You complete a medical questionnaire covering symptoms, medications, kidney function, and allergies to contrast dye. Some patients require beta-blockers to slow heart rate before scanning; clinics provide instructions and tablets if needed.
Types of Cardiac CT Scans
🔢 Coronary calcium scoring
A non-contrast scan measuring calcified plaque, expressed as an Agatston score. It predicts future heart disease risk.
💉 Coronary CT angiography (CTA)
Uses contrast dye to visualise coronary arteries in detail, assessing stenosis, plaque, and anomalies. Often paired with fractional flow reserve (FFR) analysis.
🧠 Cardiac structural scans
Evaluate congenital heart defects, pulmonary veins, and pre-procedural planning for TAVI or left atrial appendage closure.
How Much is a Cardiac CT Scan in the UK?
Calcium score scan: £350 to £520.
Coronary CT angiography: £750 to £1 200 including contrast, beta-blocker prep, and cardiologist report.
CTA + same-day cardiology consult: £950 to £1 450 for combined interpretation and treatment planning.
Explore companion articles on private cardiologist consultations and cardiac MRI for alternative imaging pathways.
Factors That Affect Cardiac CT Pricing
🏥 Facility and scanner
64-slice and 128-slice scanners with advanced reconstruction cost more but yield sharper images at lower radiation doses.
🧑⚕️ Specialist reporting
Consultant cardiologist or cardiac radiologist reports add value and cost compared with general radiology reports.
💉 Contrast and medication
Contrast dye, beta-blockers, and nitrates for CTA increase appointment time and fees.
📅 Scheduling speed
Same-day or weekend scans carry premiums; midweek bookings are more affordable.
How to Save Money on Cardiac CT
💡 Use insurance
Most private insurers cover cardiac CT with consultant referral. Obtain pre-authorisation to avoid unexpected bills.
🤝 Combine with consultations
Packages that include cardiologist consult, scan, and follow-up can cost less than booking each element separately.
📅 Compare locations
Regional centres often charge £150–£200 less than central London hospitals while delivering high-quality reporting.
FAQs
Do I need a referral?
Self-referrals are possible, but insurers and some clinics require a cardiologist letter to ensure appropriate use.
Is the scan painful?
No, you lie still while the scanner moves around you. Contrast CTA may cause a warm sensation for a few seconds.
How long does it take?
The scan lasts 10–15 minutes, but allow 60–90 minutes for prep (beta-blockers) and recovery after contrast.
Is radiation exposure high?
Modern scanners use low-dose protocols. Clinics perform CT only when benefits outweigh radiation risks.
What happens after the scan?
A cardiologist reviews images, explains your calcium score or CTA findings, and recommends lifestyle or medication changes if required.
Conclusion
Cardiac CT offers quick insight into heart health. Coordinate the scan with cardiology follow-up, budget for potential medications, and weigh CT against MRI when planning your diagnostic journey. 😁
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Jane Smith |
| Am British, live in London (1985–present) |
