WHAT IS IT?
A cardiac CT scan for coronary calcium is a non-invasive test for measuring calcium buildup in the coronary arteries. The findings on cardiac CT are expressed as a calcium score.
PURPOSE
Calcified plaque results when there is a build-up of fat and other substances under the inner layer of the artery. This material can calcify which signals the presence of atherosclerosis, also known as coronary artery disease (CAD). A doctor may recommend calcium scoring for patients with risk factors for coronary artery disease but no symptoms.
HOW IT WORKS
The extent of CAD is graded according to your calcium score. A negative cardiac CT scan for calcium scoring shows no calcification within the coronary arteries. A positive test means that CAD is present, regardless of whether or not the patient is experiencing any symptoms. The amount of calcification may help to predict the likelihood of heart attack and helps your doctor decide whether you need to take preventive measures now to lower that risk.
WHAT TO EXPECT
You may be given a gown to wear during the procedure. You will be asked to remove metal objects including jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures and hairpins or better yet leave them at home. You may also be asked to remove hearing aids and other non-implanted devices.
You will be positioned on an exam table, most likely lying on your back, side or stomach.
Electrodes (small, sticky discs) will be attached to your chest and to an electrocardiograph (ECG) machine that records the electrical activity of the heart and makes it possible to record CT scans when the heart is not actively contracting.
You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides into and out of a tunnel. You will be asked to hold your breath for a period of 10 to 20 seconds while images are recorded. When the examination is completed, you will be asked to wait until the technologist verifies that the images are of high enough quality for accurate interpretation.
Most CT exams are painless, fast and easy. The entire procedure including is usually completed within 10 minutes.
HOW TO PREPARE
Take your usual medications, but avoid caffeine and smoking for four hours before the exam. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Inform your physician and the CT technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.
