Cardiology · UK
Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) - the first-line test for stable chest pain - per NICE.
A contrast-enhanced CT that maps the coronary arteries in detail. Since NICE CG95, CCTA has been the first-line investigation for stable chest pain of suspected coronary origin in the UK - before stress imaging or catheter angiography.
Indicative pricing
What private CCTA costs in the UK.
Indicative ranges across our partner units.
In short
£500–£950, results in 5–7 working days.
| Procedure | Indicative range | Typical duration | Turnaround |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) | £500–£950 | 20–30 min | 5–7 working days |
| Consultant consultation | £200–£400 | 30–45 min | Same visit |
| Pre-procedure bloods | £80–£220 | 5 min blood draw | 24–72 hours |
| Follow-up review | £150–£300 | 20–30 min | Same visit |
Prices vary by hospital, by consultant and by the complexity of your case.
The problem
The right CCTA, at the right time - with the right consultant.
NHS pathways are excellent but capacity is stretched. Private care shortens the timeline and lets you choose the consultant.
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NHS waits are long
Median waits for elective work vary by region and specialty; private care shortens the timeline.
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The right consultant matters
Outcomes in cardiology track with volume and subspecialisation - not just hospital brand.
When it helps
When CCTA is the right step.
Situations where CCTA is a reasonable next step in the UK.
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Stable, typical or atypical chest pain
NICE CG95 first-line investigation.
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Unexplained exertional breathlessness
To exclude an ischaemic driver.
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Abnormal stress test needing clarification
CCTA maps the anatomy after a positive functional test.
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Pre-op cardiac assessment
When ischaemia risk needs quantifying.
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Post-CABG graft assessment
Non-invasive graft patency check.
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Congenital anomaly suspicion
Anomalous coronary origin in young athletes.
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Red flag: crushing chest pain now
A&E, not CCTA.
Procedure options
Options within CCTA.
Technique and delivery vary by consultant and case.
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CCTA with iodinated contrast
Standard multi-slice CT - beta-blocker if HR >65.
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FFR-CT (HeartFlow)
Adds functional flow analysis to the anatomy.
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Calcium score add-on
Often bundled at the same visit.
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CT perfusion
Reserved for equivocal cases at select centres.
Safety and recovery
What to expect afterwards - honestly.
The safety profile is well understood - the honest bits are here.
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Radiation 3–7 mSv
Higher than a calcium score - still lower than a diagnostic invasive angiogram.
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Iodine contrast
Kidney function checked; hydration and cover for at-risk patients.
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Beta-blocker for heart rate
IV metoprolol to slow HR - asthma is a relative contraindication.
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GTN spray
Sublingual GTN to dilate coronaries - watch for hypotension.
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Heavy calcium blooms
Very high CAC can limit lumen assessment; invasive angio may be needed.
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Contrast reactions
Rare; centres carry adrenaline and steroids on hand.
Reading your notes
Your report in four parts. Read the last one first.
Whichever centre performs the procedure, the report keeps to the same shape.
- 01 Header
Indication and consent
Why the procedure was done, what was consented and any relevant history.
- 02 Findings
What was seen or done
The technical detail - anatomy, samples, devices used, measurements.
- 03 Assessment
Consultant interpretation
What the findings mean in your clinical context.
- 04 Impression
Summary and next step
Read this first - the bottom line and recommended follow-up.
Recognised by major UK insurers
Usually covered by UK private medical insurance when there is a specialist referral and a clear clinical indication.
Frequently asked
Everything we get asked about CCTA.
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How much does private CCTA cost in the UK?
We share two or three options with cover checked.
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Is CCTA covered by UK private medical insurance?
Usually yes with a specialist referral and clear indication. Bupa, AXA, Vitality, Aviva, WPA and Cigna are the mainstream insurers we work with.
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How soon can I be booked?
Most patients are seen within a week; urgent cases the same week where clinically appropriate.
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Where is it performed?
In CQC-registered UK hospitals and clinics across London and the major cities.
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Will the NHS see the results?
The report goes to you and - with your consent - your NHS GP.
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Is there an NHS pathway for this?
Yes, but waits vary by region. Private care is an option when timing, choice of consultant or symptom burden makes waiting unattractive.
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