A cardiac calcium scoring CT scan (often called a coronary calcium scan) is a quick, non-contrast scan that checks for calcified plaque build-up in your heart’s arteries. Over time, fat and calcium can build up in the coronary arteries, forming hard plaques that restrict blood flow and increase the risk of a heart attack.
By measuring the amount of calcium in these plaques, the scan produces a "calcium score." This score helps your referring doctor assess your heart health and estimate your risk of a future heart attack.
Common Indications for a Cardiac Calcium Scoring CT Scan
- Assessing heart attack risk in individuals with risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
- Screening patients with a family history of early heart disease.
- Evaluating individuals with borderline risk factors to decide if they need cholesterol-lowering medications (statins).
- Screening former smokers or adults aged 40 to 70 for hidden heart disease.
What exactly does a cardiac calcium scoring CT scan show?
The scan shows the location and amount of calcified plaque inside the arteries that supply blood to your heart. It does not show soft, non-calcified plaques; it calculates a numerical score (Agatston score) based on the hard calcium deposits.
How should I prepare for a cardiac calcium scoring CT scan?
No fasting is required. You should avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks, chocolate) and smoking for 4 hours before the scan. Caffeine and nicotine raise your heart rate, and a slow, steady heart rate is essential to capture clear images of the moving heart.
Do I need to stop taking medication?
No. Take all your regular medications as normal. If you take medications to lower your heart rate (such as beta-blockers), take them as scheduled.
What happens when I arrive for my scan?
You will change into a hospital gown. The technician will clean three small areas on your chest and place sticky patches (ECG electrodes) there. These electrodes are connected to a monitor that tracks your heart rhythm, allowing the CT scanner to take images between heartbeats.
How is the procedure performed?
You will lie flat on your back on the scanner table. The table will slide into the scanner. The radiographer will ask you to hold your breath for about 10 seconds while the images are taken. The scanner does not use any contrast dye or injections.
How long does a cardiac calcium scoring CT scan take?
The actual scan takes only about 10 to 15 seconds. The entire appointment takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
Is there any discomfort?
No. The scan is completely painless. You will feel no discomfort, other than holding your breath for a few seconds.
Are there risks?
The scan uses a low dose of radiation, similar to a mammogram. Because it does not use contrast dye, there are no risks of allergic reactions or kidney strains.
Can children have this scan?
This scan is performed on adults to assess cardiovascular disease risk. It is not performed on children.
Can I have this scan if I am pregnant?
Pregnancy Precaution
Tell your doctor or radiographer if you are pregnant or think you might be. Because this scan uses radiation over the chest, it is avoided during pregnancy.
When will I get my results?
A radiologist will calculate your Agatston calcium score. A report will be sent to your referring doctor within 24 hours. A score of 0 means no calcium is present, while scores over 100 or 400 indicate moderate to high plaque build-up.
What if the scan finds something?
If your score is high, do not panic. It is a warning sign. Your referring doctor will use this score to recommend lifestyle modifications, start preventative medications like cholesterol-lowering statins or low-dose aspirin, or arrange further tests.
Conclusion
A cardiac calcium scoring scan is a quick and valuable tool for checking your heart health. Remember to avoid caffeine for 4 hours before the scan to keep your heart rate slow and steady.