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A coronary calcium scan assesses a patient’s risk of heart attack by measuring calcium deposits in the arteries leading to the heart. Patients with moderate risk are 10-20% more likely to have a heart attack within the next decade. The scan is not conclusive and is used in conjunction with other factors to determine a patient’s risk. The scan takes 10 minutes and results are usually available within two days. Patients with calcium deposits may be referred to a cardiologist for follow-up and monitoring.
A coronary calcium scan is a medical imaging tool used to assess a patient’s risk of having a heart attack within the next 10 years. The scan provides images of the arteries leading to the heart. By measuring the calcium deposits visible on the scan, the doctor determines the patient’s level of risk. Patients deemed to be at moderate risk are 10-20% more likely to have a heart attack within the next decade.
The scan results are not conclusive, but are incorporated with other factors, such as family history, in determining a patient’s risk of heart attack. According to the American Heart Association, nonsmokers with low blood pressure who are younger than 55 don’t need routine calcium scans. In contrast, smokers over the age of 65 with high blood pressure typically don’t need a coronary calcium scan because of already apparent risk factors for heart attack. Those in the moderate risk category, based on family history, blood pressure, and other factors, are prime scan candidates; however, patients with a strong family history of heart disease are candidates for scans, regardless of other factors.
The levels of radiation received during a coronary calcium scan are approximately the same as receiving 33 chest X-rays. Because of this risk, doctors typically order scans only for patients who haven’t already been diagnosed with heart disease. Even patients who have already survived a heart attack don’t need scans, as their risk is obvious. Also, pregnant women should not receive scans.
The scans take approximately 10 minutes to complete. The patient wears a hospital gown and is positioned on an examination table. The scanning machine moves around the patient’s body and shows the position of the heart within the chest. It also details arteries, including blockages caused by calcium. The scanned images are acquired and the results are logged.
No preparation is needed before a coronary calcium scan. All medications should be taken as usual unless a doctor tells the patient otherwise. There may be a waiting period before the scan if the outpatient facility is busy and the patient may wish to bring some reading material on the day of the scan.
Results are usually available within two days. Patients who have calcium deposits in their arteries are referred to a cardiologist for follow-up and monitoring. Possible treatments include a weight loss program, medications, and exercise. The patient’s doctor will work with the cardiologist to determine the next step in treatment.
Patients should consult with their doctors to determine if they need a coronary calcium scan. The test is done on an outpatient basis at a hospital or walk-in facility. Some health insurance policies cover the cost of scans.
