FAQs

Who is eligible for the cardiac CT course?

This course is primarily for doctors in radiology, cardiology, and nuclear medicine (either trainees or fully qualified), as it aims to prepare them for Level 2 training (independent reporting physician). However, any doctor who wishes to learn more about cardiac CT can attend the course. Specialist grade doctors in these fields can also attend. The course is not intended for radiographers.

What is the difference between in-person and online courses?

Over the years we have only delivered in-person courses at Level 2 using workstation-based advanced post-processing software such as Vitrea and TeraRecon. However, since September 2020, we started to provide online and hybrid courses using TeraRecon cloud software and Zoom platform (in fact this was the first Level 2 online course to be delivered in the world). The course curriculum, content, and level of training with both modes of courses are similar and our online course has thus been recognised by SCCT. From the feedback we have received from online participants, their experience has been excellent but does depend upon their network connection and devices they are using. It is thus important that those registering for the online course ensure that they fulfill the technical requirements (you will receive this once you express your interest).

Is prior knowledge of CT required for this course?

Although useful, it is not mandatory to have prior CT knowledge. Only an open mind and willingness to learn are required. The course takes the participant from the basics of CT to an advanced understanding of post-processing and interpretation of cardiac CT.

Can this course be done as just Level 1?

No, one would need to do the whole course. However, as this is a combined Level 1 and 2 course, previous Level 1 training is not required. If you already have level 1 training, you would still have to go through the full course.

Which workstation/ software is used to provide training?

We currently use TeraRecon software to provide the training (TeraRecon cloud with Zoom platform for the online courses). This is an advanced post-processing software for Cardiac CT and is best suitable for teaching purposes. The techniques for image interpretation taught in the course can be adopted on most similar new software by other vendors. For online courses, a small file will be downloaded to your PC and you access the cases through the TeraRecon cloud software. For onsite courses, the TeraRecon software with cases is installed on the workstations provided. Normally, for the onsite courses, two participants share one workstation with a combination of a radiologist and a cardiologist (as much as possible) in order to facilitate improved learning from each other. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, we have one person per workstation. 

Does the course provide BSCI / SCCT level 2 certification?

BSCI / SCCT / EACVI certification is not directly provided by any course. Once you have completed the six-day course, you will be provided with the course certificate along with a log of cases to include:

• 20 hours of didactic lectures
• Performance of supervised mentored interpretation of 200 cases of cardiac CT (including 50 non-contrast CT)
• Viewing 15 live recorded cases

After the course, you would have to visit a CT department locally in your or nearby to participate in the performance and reporting of the required number of live cases (called on-site training) which isn't provided during the course itself (which is not provided by most such courses). The number of on-site live cases one needs to be involved in depends upon the professional body. We can try to arrange onsite training for a participant if one is not available in their hospital or region. The process of applying and obtaining BSCI or SCCT level two certification would be explained during the course.

Can I commute to the course venue (for in-person courses)?

Although you can easily commute to the course venue, the course is very intensive mostly starting at 8 am and ending 6 pm. It is advisable that you stay at the venue itself or close by. We have negotiated a suitable tariff for accommodation with the venue. 

What resources are available to learn more about cardiac CT?

About 4 weeks before the course, you will be provided with a link to the course on-line lectures, most of which are mandatory to view and pass before attending the course. You have to give at least 14-16 hours to go through these lectures and obtain the 10 point CPD certificate. You can view previous course lectures on www.cv-imaging.org by registering on the website free of charge as well as recent webinars on this website. When you attend the course, you will be provided with an online course manual and a permanent link to a resource folder.

Is the course recognised for CPD?

Attendance to the full 6-days of the course is recognised for 46 CPD credits by the Royal College of Radiologists, London, in accordance with their guidelines. These CPD credits are recognised by most of the UK or international professional bodies. 

Can I apply for CBCCT exam after the course?

After completing the course and required number of live cases, you would be able to apply for SCCT Level 2 certification in cardiac CT. For CBCCT exam, there are some other criteria also which you find on their website http://www.cccvi.org/cbcct/content_574.cfm?navID=89. It is your responsibility to meet these eligibility criteria.

How can I find out more information about the course?

Please express your interest by completing the registration. An information pack will be sent to you along with relevant fees.