Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring

Using a state-of-the-art Multislice Spiral CT scanner, approximately 100 X-RAY slices are rapidly transmitted through the regions of the heart and the coronary arteries are imaged. Using sophisticated computer software, we are able to image and determine the amount of calcification in the coronary arteries. This allows for a precise quantification of the extent of atherosclerotic plaque build-up, which might exist in the coronary arteries.

Is Coronary Artery Computerized Tomography Risky, Painful Or Time Consuming?

No. The procedure takes less than ten minutes. It is entirely non-invasive, pain-free, requires no needles, and no exercise. The amount of radiation is less than that of a chest X-RAY. If you take medications, there is no need to alter your usual prescription (or take any additional medications) for the examination. It is not necessary to fast prior to the scan.

What Does The Procedure Involve?

You will be asked to lie down on your back on the CT scanning table. Since the study is gated, the technologist will place EKG electrodes on your chest. In less than 10 minutes, the examination is completed, and you may resume your normal routine. The radiologist will interpret your images and will calculate a calcium score for your coronary arteries. This score is matched against other people of your gender and age group. This information is then promptly transmitted to your physician.

How Can Coronary Artery CT And Calcium Scoring Reduce My Risk Of Heart Attack?

In order to prevent heart attacks, the first step is to know if you have coronary artery disease. With the information this test provides, your physician will have an understanding of the extent of atherosclerotic build-up there is in your coronary arteries. He or she can then recommend appropriate treatment, including diet and lifestyle changes, medication or further diagnostic testing. It has been shown that these recommendations, when applied to patients early and appropriately, can reduce a patient’s risk of heart attack by as much as 30%!

Indications for Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring (CACS)

Triage for Lipid Lowering Therapy
  • Diabetes
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Hypertension
  • Family history of cardiac or vascular disease
  • Lipid abnormalities
  • High cholesterol
  • Smoker
  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • Men or women between the ages of 45 to 75
  • Equivocal stress test
Triage for CT Angiography vs. Catheterization
  • Chest pain
  • Myocardial ischemia
  • Equivocal stress test
  • Discordant stress test and clinical findings

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