Cardiac calcium scoring is a safe, painless, noninvasive and accurate test for your physicians to use to determine your coronary artery calcium content. Cardiac calcium scoring results can assist your physician to determine your risk for a heart attack.

A CT technologist explains the procedure to you and asks you several questions about your medical history. This procedure requires no injections, treadmills, or any other preparation such as fasting. You are alone in the room, however the technologist sees, hears and speaks with you at all times using a two-way intercom.

Your physician provides you with detailed instructions describing how to prepare for your procedure. If you take any medications, ask your doctor if you should take them before your CT Scan. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, avoiding garments that have zippers, belts or buttons made of metal. Note: Women should always inform their physician or technologist if there is a possibility they are pregnant or breast-feeding.

A radiologist, a physician specially trained to diagnose conditions and diseases, interprets the results of the exam. The radiologist sends an interpretation of your results to your primary care physician. Your doctor discusses these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health. You receive a printout of your results before you leave. In some instances, we will send screening results to you by US Mail in approximately one week. It is your responsibility to contact your physician for follow up evaluation for any abnormal test results (any score above zero).

Where Can I Find Out More?

Radiology Info: CT Calcium Scoring