Calcium Scoring

This screening exam is a very useful tool in the evaluation of coronary artery disease. It works by quantifying the total buildup of hardened calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. It then compares that score to a large reference population matched to the patient’s age and sex. A coronary calcium scan can predict your likelihood of a future heart attack. Even with no family history of heart disease, many people come to Jefferson Radiology to have this quick and simple test performed. The results from the scan will provide you with the answers you need to keep your heart healthy and your mind at ease.

A calcium scoring scan is a screening exam used for people who may be at risk for heart disease despite having no symptoms or family history of the disease. People from all walks of life choose to have a calcium scoring exam as a first step towards improving their heart health. You are a good candidate for this exam if you are currently on blood pressure medication or have high cholesterol levels. If you have any of the following risk factors, talk to your physician about whether a calcium scoring exam is right for you:

• High stress levels
• Sedentary lifestyle
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Family history of heart disease
• Diabetes
• History of smoking

Patients who have had previous cardiovascular treatment or surgery, including coronary stenting, coronary bypass surgery, pacemaker placement, or valve replacement are not candidates for this screening procedure.

Many first learn that they have heart disease when they have a heart attack. A calcium scoring exam can help you find out if you may have early heart disease before it gets worse. After you know your risk, you and your doctor can make decisions about how to lower it. You can make lifestyle changes such as having a heart-healthy eating plan, staying at a healthy weight, getting more exercise, and quitting smoking. You might also decide to take medicine such as cholesterol or blood pressure medicine.

A calcium scoring exam is performed with a computed tomography (CT) scanner to determine if the coronary arteries are blocked or narrowed by the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries. During the test, a CT scan takes pictures of your heart in thin sections. The result is a score based on the amount of calcified plaque seen on the scan. The higher your calcium score, the higher your risk of heart attacks or strokes.

The appointment time is approximately 15 minutes, with the actual scan time taking only a few seconds. It does not involve any injections or medications. After completing a brief risk factor questionnaire, you will be asked to lie down on the table fully dressed while the technologist places EKG leads on your chest. While the scan is being performed, you will hold your breath for a brief period to allow for clear images. A radiologist from Jefferson Radiology who is specialized in body and cardiovascular imaging will then study the images and send a report to your physician.

The amount of radiation exposure during a cardiac CT for calcium scoring is relatively low, similar to that of a mammogram. The benefits of knowing your risk of heart attacks or strokes often outweigh the risks associated with this small amount of radiation. However, it is always important to discuss any concerns with your doctor.