CT Calcium Scoring
CT Calcium Scoring is a specialized, non-invasive CT scan that detects calcified plaque in the coronary arteries, an early sign of coronary artery disease (CAD), which can increase your risk of heart attack or stroke.
Learn More About CT Calcium Scoring
CT Calcium Scoring is a non-invasive scan that helps detect the early signs of coronary artery disease (CAD), often before any symptoms appear. The exam utilizes a specialized type of CT scan to capture detailed images of your heart, specifically searching for calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. These calcium deposits are an early indicator of plaque buildup, which can narrow your arteries and reduce blood flow to the heart. Your calcium score, also known as a CAC score, gives your doctor valuable information about your heart health. A higher score may indicate a greater risk of heart attack or stroke, while a score of zero suggests a very low risk. Based on your results, your physician may recommend lifestyle changes, medication, or additional testing to help prevent future heart problems.
CT Calcium Scoring is typically recommended for adults between the ages of 40 and 70 who may be at increased risk for heart disease but do not yet show symptoms. It’s beneficial if you have one or more of the following risk factors:
- Family history of heart disease
- Smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Diabetes or obesity
- A sedentary lifestyle or high levels of stress
This test is not usually recommended for individuals who already have known coronary artery disease, a history of heart attacks, or prior stents or bypass surgery.
If you’re unsure whether a CT Calcium Score is appropriate for you, speak with your doctor. It could be a valuable step in understanding your heart health and taking action to protect it.
A technologist will place a few small electrodes on your chest to monitor your heart rate during the scan. You’ll then lie on a CT table, which slowly moves through the scanner. The scan itself takes about 10 minutes, during which you’ll be asked to hold your breath briefly to capture clear images.
The entire process usually takes about 15 minutes. The exam is entirely painless, requires no needles or contrast dye, and you’ll be able to return to your normal routine right after your visit.
Preparing for your exam is simple:
Medications: Continue taking your prescribed medications as usual, unless your doctor has given you different instructions.
Before Your Appointment: For the most accurate results, avoid caffeine and smoking for at least four hours before your exam.
Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may be asked to change into a gown. Please remove any metal items, such as jewelry or hair clips, from the area being scanned.
Pregnancy: If there is any chance you may be pregnant, let the technologist know before the exam begins.
Your exam will be reviewed by one of our board-certified radiologists, who will interpret the images and generate a detailed report. This report will be sent to your referring physician within five business days.
Once finalized, your results will also be available through our online patient portal for your review and reference. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your results, please contact your referring doctor directly.