Basics
Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA)
Indications
When is a cardiac CT scan recommended?
Suspected CHD (coronary heart disease)
- In cases of chest pain, exertional dyspnoea or an abnormal exercise ECG, to investigate narrowing of the coronary arteries.
Calcium scoring
- Measurement of calcium deposits in the coronary arteries for cardiovascular risk stratification.
Bypass check
- Non-invasive assessment of bypass vessels following aortocoronary bypass surgery.
Stent assessment
- Monitoring coronary stents for patency and restenosis.
Aorta and heart valves
- Visualisation of the aorta, aortic valves and congenital heart defects prior to planned procedures (e.g. TAVI).
Atrial fibrillation
- Imaging of the pulmonary veins prior to catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation.
Preparationx
What you need to bear in mind before a cardiac CT scan
???? Please bring the following with you
- Referral form from the cardiologist or GP
- Latest doctor’s report (including ECG results and, where applicable, echocardiogram findings)
- Current medication plan
- Blood tests: creatinine and TSH (in cases of kidney or thyroid disease)
- Pre-operative report for a bypass assessment
⚠️ Preparation
- No caffeine: no coffee, black tea, cola, energy drinks or chocolate
- No smoking
- No heavy breakfast – a light meal is fine
- Make sure you drink plenty of fluids (including after the examination)
- Arrange for someone to accompany you or use public transport – don’t drive yourself
Costs & Coverage of Costs
How much does a cardiac CT scan cost?
For those with private health insurance, a cardiac CT scan is covered by the private health insurance provider. However, it is important that the correct medical indication is established. A cardiac CT scan is not simply a screening test! The medical necessity is determined by a specialist, based on the patient’s individual complaints, symptoms and test results.
In accordance with the GBA resolution relating to the assessment procedure “Computed tomography coronary angiography for diagnosis in patients with suspected chronic coronary heart disease (Section 135 of Book V of the Social Code)”, which was published on 27 April 2024, cardiac CT was also included in the catalogue of services covered by statutory health insurance funds at the start of 2025.
GPs, cardiologists and occupational health specialists may refer patients for a cardiac CT scan. However, the examination may only be carried out for specific indications, namely:
1. To rule out CHD prior to planned heart surgery
2. To rule out or investigate suspected CHD where there is a pre-test probability of 15–50%
Your referring doctor must note this indication, including the so-called pre-test probability, on the referral form. Should there be any uncertainty regarding this, your treating doctor is welcome to contact us at any time. We will then bill your health insurance provider directly.
The examination is NOT covered by health insurance following bypass surgery or as a follow-up after a stent implantation has already taken place.
In addition, there are so-called ‘selective contracts’ that some health insurance funds have entered into, which enable their policyholders to undergo a cardiac CT scan if coronary heart disease is suspected. Our practice is a member of the selective contracts with GWQ and DAK.
You can find a list of health insurance funds participating in the programme on the website of our contractual partner, MEDIQX health management GmbH. There is a separate agreement for all DAK policyholders; further information on this can be found here:
FAQ
