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View Printable VersionCardiac Computed Tomography (CT)
We obtain approximately 100 scans of the heart in about 30 seconds (a single breath-hold). The coronary arteries are identified and the presence of calcification is detected by the computer and is categorized by location. The amount of calcification is quantitatively determined for each artery and a total score is determined. The total "score" is an indication of the risk of the patient for a significant area of coronary artery stenosis.
- What is cardiac scoring by Colorado Springs Imaging?
- Am I a candidate for the Cardiac Scoring CT test?
- Why should I have the Cardiac Scoring CT test done?
- Do I need a doctor's referral to have the Cardiac Scoring CT test?
- Why do I want to know my coronary artery calcium score?
- How is the test scored and what does my score mean?
- What do the results of the Cardiac Scoring CT test tell me?
- Does a very low score or even a score of "zero" mean that there is no chance of a heart attack?
- Is the Cardiac Scoring CT test covered by my insurance?
- What will I have do to during the examination?
- When will I get my results?
- Who interprets the Cardiac Scoring CT test?
- Is my information private?
- What should I wear the day of my examination?
- What should I do to prepare for my examination?
Scoring of Coronary Calcification
| Score of 0 | No identifiable atherosclerotic plaque. It is very unlikely that you have significant coronary artery disease. |
| 1-10 | Minimal identifiable plaque. Significant* coronary artery stenosis is unlikely. |
| 11-100 | Mild identifiable plaque. Mild or minimal coronary artery stenosis is likely. |
| 101-400 | Moderate identifiable plaque. Moderate likelihood of significant* coronary artery stenosis. |
| Over 400 | Significant plaque burden. High likelihood of significant* coronary artery stenosis. |
| *Significant stenosis is defined as greater than 50% | |
There is a strong positive statistical relationship between the total amount of calcification and the likelihood of stenosis. It is important to remember that the location of the calcification does not necessarily indicate the location of stenosis. Thus, a low score does not guarantee a disease-free heart or that an MI will not occur. The coronary score information can be incorporated into the National Cholesterol Education Program guidelines (NCEP ATP-II). Dietary therapy and possible drug therapy, depending on clinical factors and family history, is recommended for patients with a coronary calcium score greater than 100. You can refer to the proposed NCEP ATP-II modifications based on an article by Rumberger JA, et al, (Mayo Clin Proc 1999:74:243-252).
If a very high score is found, we will personally discuss the results with the patient and his/her physician before we discharge the patient from our clinic; otherwise, the report will be available within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cardiac scoring by Colorado Springs Imaging?
Cardiac scoring by Colorado Springs Imaging is a noninvasive CT cardiac scoring test for determing the amount of plaque buildup in the arteries or your heart (the coronary arteries). Plaque buildup slows the flow of blood to the heart muscle and can cause ischemia and increase the chance of fatal and nonfatal heart failure.
Am I a candidate for the Cardiac Scoring CT test?
We suggest that men over 45 years old or women over 55 consider the Coronary Scoring CT test. The test may be indicated in other patients with one or more risk factors, regardless of age. We suggest that you check with your primary care physician or cardiologist.
The American Heart Association has identified the following risk factors:
- Men over age 45
- Women over age 55 Elevated
- Elevated LDL cholesterol
- Low HDL cholesterol
- Family history of coronary artery disease
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Sedentary life style
- High blood Pressure
- Diabetes
Any one who is interested in having the test done should call us for an appointment at (719) 260-6500.
Why should I have the Cardiac Scoring CT test done?
Eighty-five percent of sudden heart attacks could be prevented if the conditions that lead to the attack are diagnosed early enough to prescribe treatment and lifestyle changes. By knowing your score before you develop symptoms, you are taking charge of your health and incorporating indicated lifestyle changes to protect the health of your heart.
Do I need a doctor's referral to have the Cardiac Scoring CT test?
Cardiac scoring is available to any individual who wants to assess his or her risk of heart problems. We recommend that you consult with your physician -- however, a doctor’s referral is not necessary. Cardiac Scoring CT lets you take charge of your health - whether you are just curious or feel that you are at risk due to family history or other risk factors.
Why do I want to know my coronary artery calcium score?
By knowing your score, you could possibly reverse your plaque buildup and stop the progression of heart disease. Your doctor may recommend dietary treatment, lifestyle changes, exercise or drug therapy.
How is the test scored and what does my score mean?
A technologist working with the CT uses a computer program to process cardiac CT data and check the different coronary arteries for calcification. Calcification is a bone-like substance that can be detected by certain types of X-rays. The Cardiac Scoring CT quantifies the amount of calcification present in the coronary arteries by converting it into a score. When there is calcification, we know that there is plaque buildup.
What do the results of the Cardiac Scoring CT test tell me?
The results will let you know if there is any calcified plaque buildup in the arteries to your heart. The higher the test score, the more plaque there is - which indicates a greater risk of heart attack. Any score above zero should be discussed with your physician. Your score will be placed into one of the 5 categories shown above.
Does a very low score or even a score of "zero" mean that there is no chance of a heart attack?
Unfortunately, there are no guarantees. Cardiac Scoring CT is just one way of assessing your heart's health and needs to be evaluated with other health information about you - such as your cholesterol levels, smoking history, family history and other risk factors.
Is the Cardiac Scoring CT test covered by my insurance?
As with most new screening tests, the Cardiac Scoring CT test is not covered by most insurance plans or Medicare at this time; however, check with your plan regarding preventive screening services – it just may be covered.
What will I have to do during the examination?
The examination is very quick and easy. All you have to do is lie on your back for about five to ten minutes. You will be asked to hold your breath when the scan is taken.
When will I get my results?
The results will be available within 24 hours.
Who interprets the Cardiac Scoring CT test?
The radiologist, a medical doctor and an imaging specialist, will interpret the scans and provide a report to you and your physician (at your request).
Is my information private?
All of your results are completely private and secure. CSI will not release any of your information to anyone unless you personally request us to do so.
What should I wear the day of my examination?
Please dress in comfortable clothing, avoiding clothing with metal clasps or buttons. Women should not wear bras with metal underwires or clasps. Sports bras are well suited.
What should I do to prepare for my examination?
Please avoid exercise and stimulants like coffee and tea which may increase your heart rate before your examination. Do not stop your medication. A light breakfast or lunch with water or non caffeinated drinks is acceptable.