Cardiac CT Scan
A cardiac computed tomography (CT) scan is a non-invasive way of obtaining information about the location and extent of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries—the vessels that supply oxygen-containing blood to the heart wall. Plaque is a build-up of fat and other substances, including calcium, which can, over time, narrow the arteries or even close off blood flow to the heart. The result may be painful angina in the chest or a heart attack.
Who Should Have a Cardiac CT Scan?
A Cardiac CT scan for calcium is used to detect coronary artery disease (CAD) at an early stage when there are no symptoms. The procedure is most often suggested for men aged 45 years or older and for women who are aged 55 and above or who are postmenopausal. The major risk factors for CAD, other than age, are:
- abnormally high blood cholesterol levels
- a family history of heart disease
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- cigarette smoking
- being overweight or obese
- being physically inactive
Cardiac CT Scan Benefits
- Cardiac CT scans for calcium scoring is a convenient and noninvasive way of evaluating the coronary arteries.
- Cardiac CT scans take little time and causes no pain.
- The exam does not require injection of contrast material and therefore avoids its possible side effects.
- The examination can suggest the presence of CAD even when the coronary arteries are less than 50 percent narrowed. Standard cardiac tests will not reliably detect this level of blockage, and more than half of all heart attacks occur with less than 50 percent narrowing.
- No radiation remains in a patient's body after a CT examination.
- X-rays used in CT scans usually have no side effects.
Cardiac CT Scan Appointments
The total cost of this procedure is $200. To schedule a cardiac CT scan, please call (301) 891-5053, Monday-Friday from 8:00am-3:00pm.