Coronary Calcium Scan

One of the most insightful tests regarding the risk of heart disease is a Coronary Calcium Scan. This test is targeted to people without any known heart disease or cardiac symptoms but with a strong family history of heart disease, borderline abnormal glucose, high cholesterol and borderline high blood pressure where additional information may help clarify risk and influence treatment decisions. 

The scan determines if calcified plaques (a form of cholesterol buildup) are accumulating in arteries of the heart, and if additional testing is needed to detect dangerous blockages. 

Preparation

• The quality of this test depends heavily on your heart rate. Your doctor may choose to give you some medicine to take the night before and the morning of your test to slow your heart. If your heart rate is high at the time of the test, you may be given the option to re-schedule the test after consulting with your physician.
• NO caffeine, coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks or smoking 24 hours prior to the exam.
• Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment to allow for registration and billing requirements.
• Bring a prescription if your doctor has given one to you.
• Glucose monitors must be removed for CT scan.

Procedure

• You will lie on a table. The table slides into the CT scanner.
• ECG Leads will be placed on your chest
• The technologist will ask you to hold your breath for 15 seconds during your scan.
• The entire scan takes up to 15 minutes.