Cardiac CT for calcium scoring (or heart CT scan) is a 10-15 minute non-invasive
test to determine the level of calcium in the coronary artery of your
heart. The coronary arteries are the vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood
to the heart. Plaque — made of fat, calcium and other substances
— can build up and narrow or close the arteries. The coronary calcium
scoring test allows doctors to look at the arteries of your heart from
outside the body to check for blockages that cause heart attacks. This
simple, non-invasive and painless procedure can detect the presence of
coronary artery disease long before it becomes symptomatic.
By catching heart disease early through Coronary Calcium Scoring, preventative
measures can be taken to reduce the risk of a heart attack and sudden
cardiac death.
Who should have the calcium scoring test?
Coronary calcium scoring is for adults within 45-80 years old who have
one or more risk factors for heart disease, such as:
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Family history of heart disease
Diabetes
Obesity
Tobacco use
The coronary calcium scan is a better predictor of coronary events than
cholesterol screening or other risk factor assessments and could save
your life.
What are the benefits of a cardiac CT calcium scoring test?
Cardiac CT for calcium scoring is a convenient and noninvasive way of evaluating
whether you may be at increased risk for a heart attack.
The exam takes little time, causes no pain, and does not require injection
of contrast material.
An CT scan takes less than 20 minutes and you can return to normal activities
immediately afterward.
No radiation remains in a patient's body after a CT examination.
X-rays used in CT scans should have no immediate side effects.
How much does this test cost?
This test does not require a doctor’s order and only costs $149.
You can check with your insurance provider to see if this test is covered
in your plan.
For more information, speak to your physician. To make an appointment contact
Gunnison Valley Health’s Diagnostic Imaging Department at
(970)-641-7253.
