What exactly is calcium scoring?

CT Calcium Scoring is the best noninvasive test for determining coronary artery calcium content.

The procedure begins with a fast, convenient, painless computed tomography (CT) exam. CT, commonly known as CAT scanning, is the process of making an X-ray image of a very small cross section of your body. During CT scanning, an X-ray beam passes through your body and is recorded by electronic detectors. These detectors then send the information to a computer where it is translated into an image.

The exam itself is simple. You will lie on the CT table as it slowly moves into the scanner. Then, a picture of your beating heart will be taken while you hold your breath for approximately 20 seconds. There will be no injections, treadmills, fasting or blood work needed.

Information acquired during your CT exam will then be processed with our calcium scoring software by our board certified cardiologists, evaluating and quantifying the amount of calcium in your coronary arteries. All results from your test will be given to you, and sent to your physician.

Please note that screening CT examinations are not intended to take the place of your usual routine doctor's evaluations, but rather to give you and your doctor additional information on which to base lifestyle changes and treatment decisions.

We hope many of your questions about CT Calcium Scoring are answered here. Should you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact our office or consult with your physician.

Heart Disease
Are you at risk?

To learn whether you have the risk factors associated with heart disease, answer these few easy questions:

♥ Men: Are you 45 or older?
♥ Woman: Are you 55 or older or have you passed menopause?
♥ Do you have a family history of heart disease?
♥ Do you smoke or are you exposed to second-hand smoke?
♥ Do you have high cholesterol?
♥ Do you have low HDL ("good cholesterol")?
♥ Do you have high blood pressure or hypertension?
♥ Do you have diabetes?
♥ Do you have an inactive lifestyle?
♥ Do you consider yourself overweight?

If you answered yes to two or more questions, a calcium scoring exam may be beneficial to you.

Q & A
About Your CT

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease occurs when the arteries that carry blood and oxygen to the heart become clogged with cholesterol and fat. The fat build -up slows the flow of blood to the heart muscle.

Is CT like an X-Ray?

Yes. In fact, CT Calcium Scoring uses x-rays in conjunction with computer technology to generate images of your internal organs, in this case your heart and arteries. CT Calcium Scoring is a highly reproducible, non invasive test for your physician to use to determine your coronary artery calcium content. This is important because high calcium content indicates evidence of coronary artery disease.

What is the procedure like?

During your exam, you'll simply lie on the CT table as it slowly moves into the doughnut-shaped scanner. The scanner will then capture an image of your beating heart while you hold your breath for approximately 20 seconds. That's all there is to it.

Will there be any injections?

CT calcium Scoring requires no injections or IV's of any kind.

How do I prepare for CT Calcium Scoring?

CT Calcium Scoring requires no treadmills, stress tests, contrast agents, fasting or blood work.

What happens to the results from my CT Calcium Scoring?

The information acquired during your CT calcium scoring will be given to you by mail with a formal report, and a copy will be sent to your primary care physician as well. You are encouraged to follow up with your physician to discuss your results.

Can anyone have a CT Calcium Scoring?

If you have had a previous heart attack, coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG), valve surgery, heart stent, defibrillator, pacemaker or if you are or might be pregnant you should not have this test. Please call our office for further questions.

Calcium Scoring helps doctors protect your heart

Computed Tomography (CT) has revolutionized diagnostic medicine. And now, this advance x-ray technique, coupled with Calcium Scoring software, allows physicians to view your heart and coronary arteries. The exam is quick and painless, making it easier than ever for your doctor to diagnose coronary artery disease. Early detection combined with proper treatment may just save your life.

Woodlands North Houston Heart Center
411 Lantern Bend Suite 100
Houston, Texas 77379
(281) 444-3278