How Long Does a Heart CT Scan Take?
- MRI Chandigarh
- Nov 6
- 6 min read
Understanding What a Heart CT Scan Really Is
A heart CT scan, also called a cardiac CT scan, is a special imaging test that shows the structure and function of your heart in remarkable detail. It uses advanced X-ray technology to capture multiple cross-sectional images of your heart, which are then combined to create a 3D picture.
This scan helps doctors identify early signs of heart disease — plaque build-up, narrowed arteries, calcium deposits, and other conditions that can lead to serious heart problems if left undetected.
There are two main types:
Heart CT Scan (Calcium Score) — checks the amount of calcium in your heart’s arteries.
Heart CT Scan with Contrast (Coronary CT Angiogram) — uses a contrast dye injected through a vein to show blockages or narrowing in the arteries more clearly.
At mriChandigarh, we perform both types using advanced CT technology for faster scans and perfect heart CT scan photos — clear, detailed, and accurate.
Call now: 86995–72364 to book your appointment.

How Long Does a Heart CT Scan Take?
The duration of a heart CT scan can vary depending on the type of test your doctor recommends and your overall health condition. However, most people are pleasantly surprised to know that the actual scanning part is very quick — often taking just a few minutes.
If you’re undergoing a Heart CT Calcium Score scan (without contrast), the scanning itself usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes, while the entire process — including registration, preparation, and getting ready — generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes in total.
Why Does It Take That Long?
A few factors determine how long your heart CT scan might take:
Type of scan: A basic calcium score test is quicker since it doesn’t need contrast.
Heart rate: A slower, steady heart rate gives clearer images. If your heart is beating too fast, you might be given medication to relax it before the scan — adding 10–20 minutes.
Use of contrast dye: For contrast scans, an IV line is placed in your arm and a dye is injected to highlight arteries — adding prep and recovery time.
Preparation: Removing jewellery, changing into a gown, and attaching ECG leads takes around 10–15 minutes.
Post-scan rest: If contrast is used, you’ll rest for a few minutes after to ensure there’s no reaction.
So while the scanner captures the images in seconds, the overall process from start to finish is what takes about an hour.

What Happens Before and During the Scan
Before the scan:
You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for a few hours before the test.
Avoid caffeine and smoking for at least 12 hours, as they can increase your heart rate.
Wear comfortable clothes and remove any metal objects like belts, watches, or necklaces.
During the scan:
You’ll lie down on a special table that slides into the CT machine.
ECG leads are attached to your chest to monitor your heart rate.
If it’s a heart CT scan with contrast, the radiology technician will inject the contrast dye through an IV line. You might feel a brief warm sensation or a metallic taste — totally normal and goes away quickly.
You’ll be asked to hold your breath for 5–10 seconds while images are captured.
After the scan:
You can usually resume your normal routine immediately.
Drink plenty of water to help flush the contrast dye (if used).
The radiologist will review your scan and your doctor will discuss results with you soon.
At mriChandigarh, all these steps are guided smoothly, ensuring you’re relaxed and comfortable from start to finish.
Why Timing Matters
Knowing the duration of your heart CT scan helps in:
Planning your day: You’ll know how long you’ll be at the centre.
Reducing anxiety: When you know it’s quick and simple, you feel more at ease.
Preparing properly: Following the fasting and heart-rate guidelines ensures better clarity.
Understanding value: You realize how much advanced technology works behind those few minutes of scanning to give you the best heart CT scan results.
How Accurate Are Heart CT Scans?
Heart CT scans are incredibly precise — they can detect calcium or blockages long before symptoms start. The calcium score indicates how much plaque buildup is in your arteries:
Score 0: No visible plaque — low risk.
1–100: Mild plaque — some risk.
101–400: Moderate plaque — moderate risk.
400+: Significant plaque — high risk, needs immediate medical attention.
When performed at a trusted diagnostic centre like mriChandigarh, you get not only accurate images but also expert reporting by qualified radiologists. The result is high-clarity scans and trustworthy interpretations.
For the most trusted heart CT scan near you, call 86995–72364.
The Cost of a Heart CT Scan
Pricing depends on the type of scan, equipment used, and whether contrast is involved. Let’s look at some terms people often search for when comparing costs:
Heart CT Scan Price — the standard rate for a calcium-score or angiogram scan.
Heart CT Scan with Contrast — slightly higher cost due to contrast material and extended imaging.
Best Heart CT Scan Cost in India — prices can range widely depending on city and equipment quality.
Heart CT Scan Cost in Bangalore — major cities may have different price brackets.
Heart CT Scan Price Malaysia — used for comparing international medical tourism rates.
At mriChandigarh, pricing is transparent and reasonable — with no hidden charges. Our heart CT scan price is designed to offer the best balance of cost and quality in North India.
If you’re searching “top heart CT scan near me,” you’ll find that mriChandigarh consistently ranks high for patient satisfaction, result accuracy, and comfort.
Call 86995–72364 today for exact pricing details and appointment slots.
The Advantage of mriChandigarh
Here’s why patients from all over Chandigarh, Mohali, and even nearby states prefer mriChandigarh:
State-of-the-art equipment — Our machines capture ultra-fast, ultra-clear heart images.
Expert radiologists — Each scan is analyzed by highly experienced professionals.
Quick reporting — Get your reports faster than most centres.
Patient-friendly environment — From reception to recovery, comfort comes first.
Affordable pricing — Competitive rates for best heart CT scan results.
Seamless process — Hassle-free booking, minimal waiting time, and guided support at every step.
When you trust mriChandigarh, you’re not just getting a scan — you’re getting peace of mind about your heart health.
Don’t wait — call now: 86995–72364.
Getting the Perfect Heart CT Scan Photo
Many patients worry: Will my heart images come out clear enough?At mrichandigarh, we ensure a perfect heart CT scan photo every time, thanks to:
High-speed multi-slice CT technology
Precise ECG synchronization to match heartbeats with scan timing
Optimal contrast control and expert technician guidance
That’s how you get vivid, sharp, 3D-level details of your heart — the kind that doctors rely on for accurate diagnosis and early treatment.
Why Timing Shouldn’t Stop You From Checking Your Heart
You might think, “I don’t have time to get this done.” But here’s the truth — in the time it takes to scroll social media or finish lunch, you can check the actual condition of your heart.
Just 10 minutes in the scanner could give you life-saving information. Don’t wait for symptoms — early detection means early protection.
Call 86995–72364 and take that small step toward a stronger, healthier heart.
Promotional Insight: Choose Smart, Choose Safe
When it comes to something as important as your heart, every detail matters — the quality of the machine, the experience of the doctor, and how comfortable you feel during the process. That’s where mriChandigarh truly stands out. The centre is equipped with the latest CT technology, ensuring crystal-clear images and faster scan times. Every scan is reviewed by highly experienced radiologists, so you can trust that your report is accurate and precise. Unlike many local centres that still use older equipment or take days to deliver results, mriChandigarh provides same-day reports, transparent pricing with no hidden costs, and a patient-first approach that focuses on comfort and care at every step.
This balance of technology, expertise, and compassion is what makes thousands of patients choose mriChandigarh for their heart CT scans. Because when it comes to your heart — quality, comfort, and affordability should never be compromised.
Call now: 86995–72364 to experience the difference yourself.
Final Words: Your Heart Deserves the Best
To sum up:
The heart CT scan itself takes only about 5–10 minutes.
The total visit (including preparation and aftercare) may take 30–60 minutes.
It’s quick, painless, and provides detailed information that can save your life.
Whether you need a heart CT scan with contrast or a heart calcium score test, mriChandigarh ensures clear images, reliable results, and compassionate care.
Don’t delay what could protect your heart’s future. Book your scan now.
Call 86995–72364 — the trusted number for mriChandigarh, where accuracy meets affordability.
FAQs
Q. Is the scan painful?
No. The scan is completely painless. You may feel a warm flush if contrast dye is used — that’s normal.
Q. Can I go home right after?
Yes. You can usually resume your regular routine after the scan, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Q. How soon do I get results?
Reports are usually ready the same or next day at mriChandigarh.
Q. How often should I get a heart CT scan?
It depends on your risk level. If you have high cholesterol, family history of heart disease, or are above 40, your doctor may suggest a calcium score scan every few years.
Q. Can I book directly or do I need a referral?
You can directly call 86995–72364 to book your scan — with or without a referral.






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