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Any condition that affects the function of the heart is considered heart disease. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common kind of heart disease and causes most heart attacks and chest pain (angina).
Over time, conditions like high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, cigarette smoking, and diabetes can begin to damage the smooth interior surface of arteries. When this happens to blood vessels throughout the body it’s called vascular disease. When it affects the arteries that carry blood to the heart muscle, it’s called coronary artery disease.
As the damage to artery walls continues, “bad” cholesterol can start to build up. White blood cells and other cells are then sent to the area to help clean up the cholesterol. Over time, plaque buildup (composed of fat, cholesterol, or calcium) can narrow the arteries and reduce blood flow. This is often called hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis.
For those at risk of CAD, screening exams are very important. Screening tests help determine the amount of plaque, its nature (hard or soft), and what treatment options are applicable.
To help diagnose CAD, patients are usually referred for one of two main screening exams: a coronary angiography or a coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA).
Patients with family histories of heart disease may be at risk for developing atherosclerotic plaque buildup, blocking or narrowing coronary arteries. On CT, these can be identified even before symptoms of chest pain develop.
A coronary angiography is an invasive procedure, which in rare cases can lead to serious problems like heart attack or stroke. There is also a risk of a tear or sudden closure in an artery, allergic reaction to the dye, and bleeding or bruising where the catheter was inserted. It also requires fasting before the procedure and hours of hospitalized recuperation afterward. Plus, there is potential for overuse when diagnosing patients with atypical symptoms and low-to-medium risk of disease.
CCTA also has the possibility of an allergic reaction to the contrast dye. As well, certain patients may not be good candidates for this exam, such as:
Studies have shown that the diagnostic abilities of CCTA versus coronary angiography are equivalent. Due to lower costs and improved safety, CCTA is thought to be a better first-line test to triage patients and determine the need for medical therapy or invasive evaluation. Plus, current CT scanners have lower doses of radiation and improved accuracy as compared to older machinery, and patients often prefer CCTA for coronary disease testing since it’s less invasive.
Your doctor might recommend CCTA screening if you have a family history of heart disease or to investigate symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath.
When looking for the cause of chest pain, other types of medical imaging may also be ordered to assess heart function, electrical changes within the heart, or blood flow to and from the heart (exercise stress testing, myocardial perfusion imaging).
Coronary CT angiography is available as a private pay exam, not covered by Alberta Health Care, at our Mayfair Place location. It can be purchased on its own or as part of a Health Assessment package, which provides a discount on multiple imaging exams when purchased together.
Your health spending account or group medical insurance plan may cover the cost of a private CT that is prescribed by a qualified health care practitioner. You will need to check with your plan administrator for coverage details.
Whether public or private, medical imaging must be requested by a health care practitioner who will provide a requisition. Your medical and family history, risk factors, and type and duration of symptoms, all affect a referring physician’s decision on which type of imaging is appropriate.
When we receive your requisition Mayfair Diagnostics will schedule your exam and provide you with detailed information to prepare for it. Once your exam is completed, your images will be reviewed by a specialized radiologist who will compile a report that is sent to your doctor.
Barnes, Eric (2016) “Is it time for CCTA to replace invasive angiography?” www.auntminnie.com. Accessed August 30, 2021.
Doh, J. H., et al. (2014) “Diagnostic value of coronary CT angiography in comparison with invasive coronary angiography and intravascular ultrasound in patients with intermediate coronary artery stenosis: results from the prospective multi-centre FIGURE-OUT (Functional Imaging criteria for GUiding REview of invasive coronary angiOgraphy, intravascular Ultrasound, and coronary computed Tomographic angiography) study.” European Heart Journal Cardiovascular Imaging. August, 15(8): 870-7
Healthwise Staff (2020) “Cardiac Catheterization.” MyHealth.Alberta.ca. Accessed August 30, 2021.
Healthwise Staff (2020) “Computed Tomography Angiogram (CT Angiogram).” MyHealth.Alberta.ca. Accessed August 30, 2021.
Heart and Stroke Foundation (2020) “Types of heart disease.” www.heartandstroke.ca. Accessed August 30, 2021.
Hoffman, M. & Felson, S. (2020) “Atherosclerosis and Coronary Artery Disease.” www.webmd.com. Accessed August 30, 2021.
Mayo Clinic Staff (2021) “Heart disease.” www.mayoclinic.org. Accessed August 30, 2021.
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At the heart of everything we do is a belief that every image tells a story—and every story deserves care.
At Mayfair Diagnostics, we provide state-of-the-art medical imaging that helps patients and physicians get the clarity they need to make informed decisions about health. From routine check-ups to complex diagnoses, our role is to deliver answers with compassion and accuracy.
We offer a full spectrum of imaging services, including:
MRI, CT, and X-Ray for advanced diagnostic insight
Ultrasound and Mammography for preventative and women’s health
Nuclear Medicine, Bone Density, and Cardiac Imaging for specialized care
Pain Management and Interventional Procedures to improve quality of life
But our work extends beyond exams and equipment. As the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada, we connect urban, rural, and remote communities with expert radiology services—ensuring access to care when and where it’s needed most.
We also partner with local organizations, sports teams, and community groups to keep people healthy and active. From professional athletes to families booking their first screening, our commitment is the same: timely results, advanced technology, and compassionate care.
To improve lives with clarity, compassion, and care—one focused image at a time.
But numbers only tell part of the story. What truly defines us is our culture of compassion. We’re a team of caregivers, innovators, and problem-solvers who share a commitment to excellence. Whether supporting frontline care, developing new technology workflows, or guiding a patient through their appointment, we approach our work with empathy and integrity.
At Mayfair, you’re not just part of a company—you’re part of a community. Together, we’re shaping the future of health care, making advanced imaging accessible, and creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.
WHO WE ARE. WHAT WE DO. Why we’re more than a workplace
At Mayfair Diagnostics, we’re caregivers, nurturers, creators and thought leaders—deeply rooted in a passion to help people. We deliver meaningful work, compassionate care, and an environment where every team member can thrive.
Key Points:
Founded on over a century of excellence in medical imaging.
Owned and operated by 50+ radiologists, supported by 400–640+ employees across clinical, technical, administrative, and support roles.
Operating 17 locations across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and beyond (14 in Calgary, plus Cochrane, Regina, Saskatoon).
Serving 600,000–700,000 patients annually, delivering over 90,000 radiological interpretations—the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada.
Vision & Mission:
Vision: “A world in which every person has clarity about their health.”
Mission: “To improve people’s lives, one focused image and one caring, compassionate human touch at a time.”
